During autumn, deciduous leaves explode into warm shades of gold, orange, and red as the days get colder and shorter. These shifting shades are so spectacular that people travel miles away from their homes to get a glimpse.

Although some color changes are celebrated this time of year, others are considered less attractive. For instance, if your teeth look more yellow or brown this Thanksgiving, you might feel so self-conscious about your appearance that you avoid spending time with loved ones. Continue reading to learn about four foods known to stain so you can avoid them and make the most of your season!

Common Culprit #1: Cranberry Sauce

You may have already learned the hard way that cranberry sauce can leave purply red smears on clothing and carpets, but did you know it can also tint your teeth? The dark berries comprising this popular dish can easily cling to the surface of your teeth, leaving them discolored.

Furthermore, cranberries are also highly acidic and can contribute to thinning enamel. As the protective outer layer wears down, your vulnerability to various dental dilemmas like cavities, gum disease, or other injuries increases.

Common Culprit #2: Balsamic Vinegar

Many families start their Thanksgiving dinner with salad and choose balsamic vinegar as the dressing. Eating raw vegetables can scrape plaque off your teeth and provide essential nutrients to your body to support your oral and overall health. However, covering them in balsamic vinegar could leave your grin looking brown after the fact. If you’re unable to avoid it altogether, try to limit your consumption of this popular ingredient.

Common Culprit #3: Coffee

What holiday gathering would be complete without a cup of tea or coffee with dessert? Although these beverages can warm your hands and heart, they can also alter your teeth. They contain tannins, which are naturally occurring organic compounds found in many plants that give them their bitter flavor. While you might enjoy tasting these pigmented particles, they can also stick to plaque on your teeth and gums, leaving them looking dirty.  

Common Culprit #4: Wine

One popular adult beverage that’s passed around the Thanksgiving table is red wine. Like coffee and tea, this drink contains tannins that can stain your smile and is acidic enough to wear down your enamel. You might think that you can safely sip a lighter-toned alternative, but even white wine is known to cause problems. If you plan to indulge, try rinsing your wine down with a tall glass of water to keep your mouth clean.

Watching what you eat this Thanksgiving can keep your smile looking and feeling happy and healthy!

About the Practice

At Kraft & Schrott Dental Associates, you benefit from two dentists committed to improving your oral health. Dr. Schrott and Dr. Kraft share 20+ years of combined experience providing a wide array of services to meet all your needs under one roof. They prioritize patient comfort and do everything they can to help you feel comfortable and relaxed. Then, they utilize state-of-the-art equipment to devise and implement fully customized treatment plans. If you’re interested in teeth whitening, you can request a consultation on the website or call (617) 227-4924.