Light Colored Drinks Still Have the Ability to Stain Your Teeth
Posted on 6/7/2021 by Lemond Hunter
There are many foods and drinks that have the potential to stain our teeth. Some common stain creators are coffee, tea, tomato-based sauces, berries, and red wine. It is important to know that although these dark foods and drinks may stain our teeth, they are not the only culprits. There are clear and light colored drinks that may contain tannins or acids which also damage and stain the enamel of our teeth. Some drinks may even have both tannins and acid, without the dark color that you are used to seeing as a red flag for potential stains.
Tannins
A tannin is a plant-based compound that makes it easier for chromogens to stick to the enamel. While some darker drinks such as red wine are filled with tannins, there are light and clear drinks that have them as well. Drinks such as white, green, and herbal teas, white and blush wines, as well as lighter beers, can also create problems.
Acids
Acid, contained in sports drinks, sodas, and juices, stains our teeth by eroding and softening the enamel. Without strong enamel, there becomes rough patches that may stain easily. There are many light and clear drinks that contain acid, including many clear and light fruit juices, sports drinks, and clear sodas. Alcoholic beverages of all colors can be highly acidic as well.
Tannins and acids are found in a wide range of foods and drinks, but they can also be presented in a wide range of colors. The darker the drink does not mean the more acid or tannins, however darker foods and drinks may present on the teeth faster than lighter or clear drinks. If you have concerns about your teeth and their color, we can help you. Please call us for more information on how to protect your teeth from stains.
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There are many foods and drinks that have the potential to stain our teeth. Some common stain creators are coffee, tea, tomato-based sauces, berries, and red wine. It is important to know that although these dark foods and drinks may stain our teeth, they are not the only culprits. There are clear and light colored drinks that may contain tannins or acids which also damage and stain the enamel of our teeth. Some drinks may even have both tannins and acid, without the dark color that you are used to seeing as a red flag for potential stains.