Five Forth of July foods that stain teeth. (And how to prevent!)
America! It's that special time of the year when we gather with family, friends (or even slightly annoying people) and celebrate America with things such as swimming, fireworks, and most importantly- food. According to a recent study by Scholaroo, burgers, steak, hot dogs, and chicken are among the top choices for Americans when it comes to grilling on this special day. While these foods may be delicious, these are just a few popular Independence Day foods that contribute to teeth staining.
#1- Beer
Most beers contain acidic pH levels which can cause damage to tooth enamel. This allows chromogens to become embedded, resulting in discoloration of the teeth - particularly with darker beers containing barley and malts.
#2- Salsa
The staining effects of tomatoes in salsa will leave your teeth vulnerable. Salsa may quickly penetrate the enamel and create ugly stains due to its acidity, vivid red color, and inclination to stick to your teeth.
#3- BBQ Sauces
Many barbecue sauces contain ingredients such as sugar, tomato paste, high-fructose corn syrup, and brown dyes, all of which can break down and stain tooth enamel.
#4- Berries
Another category of foods that can stain teeth during Fourth of July festivities includes berries and fruit pies. Dark-colored fruits such as blackberries, raspberries, cherries, and other acidic ingredients commonly found in fruit pies can contribute to teeth staining. Additionally, the consumption of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries in various forms, such as fillings or toppings, can also lead to teeth discoloration.
#5- Soda
Soda is terrible for your health on many levels, but it's especially bad for your teeth. It not only bathes your teeth in artificial sugar and acid (two things that are extremely harmful to your enamel), but it also contains dark colors that will stain your teeth.
Easiest way to prevent further staining.
Rinse with water. (Yes really!)
Hands down the cheapest and easiest way to combat teeth staining this July 4th is to simply rinse your mouth out with water immediately after eating or drinking. Regardless of the food source, most staining only occurs after the substance has had time to set into the enamel surface. By rinsing with water, you significantly decrease the amount of time your enamel has to absorb the instigator.
Use a Remineralizer
Remineralizer gels such as this one are a little-known secret from the teeth-whitening industry. Generally, they work by reintroducing essential minerals such as fluoride, calcium phosphate, and potassium to your enamel surface. This seals and strengthens the surface of the teeth resulting in a reduction of tooth sensitivity and stain resistance. To get the most protection, use a remineralizer gel
Use a tongue scraper
A tongue scraper is a small, metal, or plastic tool that helps remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from your tongue. This results in an increase in saliva production. Saliva neutralizes acids in your mouth that damage tooth enamel and protects the tooth's surface from stains. Now that's something to drool over!
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