Most of us know that coffee, wine, and tea can make your pearly whites a little darker, but some people naturally have yellower teeth thanks to the thickness of their dentin and enamel.
Smoking also causes staining, thanks to the nicotine and tar that settles on your enamel.
But according to Dr. Edoardo Felici, a cosmetic dentist at the APA Aesthetics Clinic, sometimes “healthy” habits can lead to a less than bright smile.
“Patients I see are often shocked when I tell them their coffee isn’t the most colored,” he told us.
Acidic drinks weaken your enamel
Drinking acidic beverages temporarily softens the enamel.
So, if you consume colorful foods and drinks (like turmeric and matcha) while your teeth are in this more vulnerable state, the dentist shared that it leaves you at a higher risk of staining.
“Often, smoothies, juices, and even kombucha cause more problems,” said Dr. Fellici.
“These drinks, while part of many wellness routines, are high in natural sugars and acids that can soften enamel, making teeth more prone to discoloration.”
Green juices, sparkling water, and apple cider vinegar all soften teeth.
If they don’t have pigmented ingredients, try not to follow them with foods like berries—that color will likely stick to your gnashers longer.
How can I prevent “healthy” drinks from staining?
dr. Felici recommended using a straw to drink acidic and/or colored beverages and rinsing your mouth with water immediately after consumption to eliminate acids.
And because your enamel is also more exposed after brushing, the dentist said we should all wait at least half an hour after our morning scrub before eating or drinking.
“Teeth are often the first thing people notice, so it’s frustrating when patients follow what they think are healthy habits, yet still struggle with stains,” concluded Dr. Felici.
“Health should work with your smile, not against it—with a few adjustments, you can keep both your health goals and your teeth in great shape.”
