The holidays are a great time to take photos and remember special moments. Thanksgiving is especially great when food is accompanied by your loved ones. Cameras are most likely to come up as people take snapshots. You should bring your best smile for this moment, but some items on the dinner table may cause stains. Here are several you should know and how you can keep your grin bright.
Which Thanksgiving Foods Cause Stains?
Your teeth can become stained because your enamel is porous. Dark particles from foods and drinks can find their way into these tiny spots and hold on, causing discoloration. There are many you should be aware of, but here are some that you may indulge in for Thanksgiving:
- Red wine can help you feel a little looser while you are talking with your loved ones, but it can erode your enamel because of its acidity. This puts your teeth at a higher risk of stains, which the beverage can cause because of the tannins in it. These are compounds that give it that mouth-drying sensation while also causing the flaw.
- Cranberry sauce has similar reasons to the point above. It’s dark in color, which can cause trouble for your bright smile. Not only that, but you may also be at a higher risk of cavities because of its sugar content!
- Pies may be a staple dessert, but types like cherry, blueberry, and raspberry have a strong color. Instead, get pumpkin pie instead, as it’s rich in nutrients that promote gum health.
What Can I Do to Avoid Stains During Thanksgiving?
There may be more foods and drinks you initially thought that can cause stains for your teeth. The good news is that you should be thankful for handy tips that help you avoid this flaw, such as:
- Rinse your mouth with water or take sips of it between other beverages.
- Brush your teeth 30 minutes after eating. Anything acidic can weaken your enamel, making this helpful habit harmful, so wait a bit, and then you are good to go!
- Limit how much you have of the foods above; that way, you don’t introduce your mouth to the dark particles as much.
If you notice any stains developing, then you can visit your dentist to get them fixed. Through a professional whitening treatment, you can brighten your smile up to an eight shade difference. An in-office visit takes about an hour, while a take-home kit takes about two weeks. Regardless, follow the tips above and keep your teeth looking great for photos and beyond!
About the Practice
At McElroy Smiles by Design of Encinitas, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here for the community to get proud grins through a wide range of treatments, including teeth whitening. By helping you get to your desired results, you may feel more confident showing them off for holiday photos and well past the new year. If you are interested in transforming your smile, schedule an appointment or call our office at (760) 621-8700.
