One of the biggest complaints people have about their teeth is that they look old. They’re stained, brown, yellow, and simply appear unhealthy. Summertime accentuates this problem. When the weather is warm, all you want to do is look and feel your best – clean and energized and healthy. But stained teeth do not portray that picture. And what you’re eating and drinking could be the reasons why.
Some of the top summer foods and drinks that can stain your teeth include:
- Popsicles and ice cream. That snow cone at the beach or popsicle from a Manhattan sidewalk vendor is so refreshing. It’s a symbol of summer and reminds you of childhood. But sticky and sweet cold treats in the summertime could ruin your smile. The high sugar content alone can create a breeding ground for bacteria and cavities if you indulge one too many times. The cold nature of iced treats can also create sensitivity issues. But deep reds, dark chocolates, and unnatural colors and flavors are what will stain your teeth (and tongue and lips and gums). Rinse with water after eating at the very least. And steer clear of grape or cherry in favor of vanilla or lemon, especially if you’re on a first date.
- Iced coffee. There are coffee shops galore in the Big Apple, and while you may love the warmth of a good cup of joe in the cold winter months, there is nothing like an iced coffee when summer heat is steaming off the asphalt. But relying on these delicious drinks can damage your teeth. Tooth enamel is porous, and coffee is one of the worst offenders when it comes to stains. We’re not saying you have to give up your java fix, but drink through a straw if you can, or lighten up your drink with milk or creamer. Always chase your coffee with water. And remember this – coffee might keep you going every day, but it doesn’t make you look any younger.
- Barbecue sauce. Finger-licking good? That’s right. But treat yourself to one too many BBQ lunches or picnics and you won’t only have stained fingers, you’ll have stained teeth too. Most barbecue sauces are made with sugar, as well as tomato paste, high-fructose corn syrup, and brown dyes will all break down and stain tooth enamel. If you must eat those BBQ chicken legs or ribs, accompany them with water and brush and floss as soon as you can after eating.
- Fruit juices. Feel the need to hydrate? Don’t turn to fruit juices or energy drinks if you’re withering in the summer heat. They might give you a sugar or caffeine kick in the moment, and the packaging may claim that the beverages are full of multiple servings of fruit. Most fruit drinks, however, are very acidic and full of sugar – even the natural ones. Chilled juices can also make sensitive teeth more sensitive. Want to pucker up for some sweet summer kisses? Leave the fruit juice behind to avoid stains and cavities.
- Blueberries. Fresh berries are a sign of summer, and blueberries in particular are tasty, refreshing, and stuffed with antioxidants. But blue isn’t often found in nature perhaps because when it is available, it’s stain producing. Enjoy a slice of blueberry pie or a pint of just-picked berries, and your teeth will be easily discolored. Don’t let the blue, no matter how fun or funky, settle in for too long. Accompany your berry snacking with a tall glass of water.
An honorable mention for summer: corn. Say no to a summer veggie? Well, you don’t have to say no, but this summer staple can be a troublesome for your teeth. Pesky pieces of corn and husk will stick between your teeth. While that isn’t going to cause stains immediately like darker foods or drinks, corn that is lodged between teeth can fester and cause irritation or, if left to sit for too long, allow bacteria and cavities to grow.
Stained teeth are embarrassing and annoying, but they are not irreversible. If a good, thorough dental cleaning doesn’t reveal your pearly whites underneath, then cosmetic dentistry solutions are the best choice for your smile makeover. Find out whether teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, or another type of aesthetic dentistry procedure that will give you a sunshiney smile from summer through all four seasons, for years to come. Contact the Manhattan dental office of Dr. Michael J. Wei to make an appointment and discuss your questions and concerns about your stained teeth.
