You already know how important it is to brush and floss daily and to see a dentist on a regular basis. You also know for good dental health you should avoid smoking or chewing tobacco. But you also need to be mindful of certain foods and beverages that can stain your teeth. Here are a few of the most common drinks that will do a number on your teeth:

• Black coffee – Being this is a dark liquid and the outer layer of the tooth is very porous means dark liquids absorb easily and stay there.
• Darker-Colored Teas, like English Breakfast and Earl Grey.  They are rich in stain-promoting tannins. Herbal, green, and white teas are less likely to stain than black tea.
• Colas – Acidic and chromogen-rich, cola can cause significant staining. The temperature of soda can also be a factor because very cold (as well as very hot) temperatures cause teeth to contract, which makes them more porous and easier to stain. In addition, the phosphoric and citric acids in soda erode tooth enamel, and the sweeteners in regular soda promote tooth decay.
• Red Wine – It maybe good for your heart but its bad for your smile! It contains chromogens and tannins which is notorious for staining teeth.

There are many other types of foods and beverages that can cause staining of your teeth including sauces, sports beverages, candy and berries but the four examples above are the most popular and common. If you are going to continue drinking these beverages on a regular basis some ways to minimize stained teeth is by using a straw when you drink, swallow quickly and to swish with water soon after you drink one of these beverages.  For more information and to make a dental cleaning appointment call Gentle Dental today at 1-888-513-7436.