White Wine
Red wine is notorious for staining your teeth. However, did you know white wine has just as much potential to cause dental stains? A recent study has shown that white wine can cause stains and even erosion due to its extreme acidity. The acid can break away your tooth enamel, creating grooves that leave your teeth vulnerable to stains from other foods. Keep this in mind while making your light summer cocktails and sangrias.
Lemonade
Lemons are extremely acidic. When this fruit juice is combined with sugar to make lemonade, it can be disastrous on your teeth with a high potential to cause tooth decay. Drinking this summer-time favorite in excess can strip the enamel from your teeth, leaving them sensitive and exposed to the bacteria that thrive in sugary, acidic environments.
Pool Water
Everyone loves to beat the summer heat and cool off in the pool. However, swimmers beware: if you swim in a pool (that is chemically treated) multiple times a week, you can develop yellow-brown stains on your teeth referred to as “swimmer’s calculus.” This happens when the chemicals in the pool are mixed with your saliva, causing the strange color buildup.
It’s all right to enjoy these liquids and beverages in moderation, as long as you follow guidelines to protect your teeth including:
- Drink plenty of water after eating or drinking.
- Use a straw when drinking acidic beverages.
- Wait to brush your teeth—if you brush immediately following, you are brushing your teeth with the acidic substance.
- Consider an airtight mouth guard for swimming in chemically treated water.
- Schedule frequent professional cleaning visits to our dental office.
To schedule your next cleaning or visit, call Dr. Heather Fleschler at (713) 660-6500. We are committed to creating brighter smiles in the West University, Meyerland and surrounding areas of Houston, Texas.
