Food Enhancements which Might Stain Your Teeth

A white smile gives you a more youthful and vibrant appearance. No wonder teeth whitening has become one of the most highly requested cosmetic dental services out there. Park Ridge dentists, Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas, know how important safe and effective whitening and brightening solutions are as compared to over-the-counter methods. Professional in-office and dentist recommended at-home teeth whitening treatments will produce maximum results to refresh and invigorate your gorgeous grin. Once you make this investment in your smile, however, you may want a few suggestions on how to eat and drink to prolong the brightness of your enhanced grin.

Beware of Soy Sauce

Soy sauce goes with rice as well as hot fudge goes with vanilla ice cream. The Japanese were responsible for identifying what we in America now call the fifth taste sensation – umami. Soy sauce on sushi rolls is a perfect example of the savory blend of taste sensations that make up umami. The salty liquid known as soy sauce might make your sushi experiences, but that dark brown color is not great for your teeth.  If you simply can’t give up your favorite Japanese condiment, try swishing water around in your mouth in between each sushi roll dipped in soy sauce so the dark color does not remain in contact with your smile.

Tomato Sauce and Teeth

Tomato sauce is full of vitamins and nutrients such as lycopene. Tomatoes are a popular part of many cuisines, used in both raw and cooked forms. Where would the zing in pizza, pasta, and so many Italian delicacies come from without a hearty marinara sauce? Unfortunately, tomato-based sauces, while possibly healthy for your body, can stain your teeth and expose you to too much acid. The good news? What accompanies Italian food better than a nice green salad, a side of spinach, or some steamed broccoli? All of these vegetable based choices coat your teeth with a film which will guard your smile from excess stains.

Visit your Park Ridge Dentists

To learn more, schedule an appointment with Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas by calling your Park Ridge dental office at (847) 696-1919. Located in the 60068 area, we proudly serve patients from Park Ridge and the surrounding Chicago communities.