Common Culprits of Tooth Discoloration

Everyone knows that certain foods and beverages – and bad habits – are the common culprits of tooth discoloration: coffee, dark fruit, foods and beverages that are high in acid, and cigarette smoking, among various other items that may or may not be good for you (but not as good for teeth). While maintaining a regular, healthful diet that is high in essential nutrients is always a good practice, there are certain foods that can help make your teeth whiter and your smile brighter.

Some foods to work into your regular diet for health and whiter teeth are dark green vegetables like broccoli, kale and spinach. While great with a meal, it’s smart to eat these foods first, before the main event, as they create a film over the teeth that serves as protection from foods that are known to cause staining, like tomato sauce or red wine.

Dr. James R. Anderson offers both in-office or take-home teeth whitening services and kits at his Kansas City, MO cosmetic dentistry office. If all you are searching for is making your smile a little more bright, some careful curation of foods that are more conducive to whiter teeth may be all you need to turn your smile from a little lackluster to sparkling. While whitening products can help more whiten in minor and more severe cases, most people find that a combination of a whitening kit followed by paying closer attention to what they are eating can make a huge different in their “smile wattage.”

Limiting consumption of common tooth-staining drinks like coffee and tooth decay-promoting foods, like candy is a good first step when it comes to brighter teeth. We know we don’t have to tell you this, but stop smoking – seriously. The very least of your issues when it comes to smoking is discolored teeth, but whiter teeth are always a nice bonus. Minimizing your consumption of alcohol can help as well, since alcohol has a dehydrating effect in your mouth, which leads to dry mouth, promoting tooth decay.

Contact the Kansas City, MO dental office of Dr. Anderson to learn more about tooth whitening or other cosmetic dentistry services.