Food to Avoid Staining Your Teeth

Published: Jun 30, 2025byDr Silas Prashant

“Everyday” foods and drinks are often the culprits behind stained teeth. At First Impressions Dental, we see it all the time. Patients work hard to maintain their smile, only to have certain foods undo their efforts.

However, a few simple diet changes can help keep your teeth whiter for longer.

What Stains Our Teeth: The Main Culprits

Coffee and Tea
Your morning brew might wake you up, but it’s also dulling your smile. Both coffee and tea contain tannins that cling to enamel and cause discolouration.

Red Wine
That glass of cabernet with dinner leaves more than just a pleasant taste. The dark pigments and acidity in red wine can leave lasting marks on your teeth.

Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants. They’re also packed with pigments that stick to teeth. Even berry juice and smoothies can cause staining.

Tomato-Based Sauces
Pasta night might be a family favourite, but tomato sauces are acidic and brightly coloured. This combination can weaken enamel and leave stains behind.

Curry and Turmeric
These vibrant spices add flavour to meals but can also add yellow tints to your teeth. The bright pigments in these spices are particularly clingy.

Dark Sodas and Sports Drinks
The artificial colours in these beverages aren’t just bad for your waistline. They’re also notorious for staining teeth over time.

Balsamic Vinegar
This dark, sticky dressing clings to teeth, potentially causing discolouration if used regularly.

Dentist performing dental treatment with laser tool.

Smart Strategies to Prevent Stains

We all love tasty foods and have our guilty pleasures, so don’t get us wrong, you don’t need to eliminate these foods completely. Try these simple tricks instead:

Rinse with water after consuming staining foods
Use a straw for dark drinks to minimise contact with teeth
Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables alongside foods that stain
Brush about 30 minutes after eating (waiting prevents enamel damage)
Maintain regular dental check-ups and cleanings

Foods That Help Keep Teeth White

Some foods actually help maintain your smile’s brightness:

Crunchy apples and celery act like natural toothbrushes
Cheese and yogurt strengthen enamel with calcium
Cauliflower requires extra chewing, which produces saliva to rinse away stains
Water keeps your mouth clean and washes away potential stains

When Professional Teeth Whitening Can Help

Even with careful habits, teeth naturally darken over time. Professional teeth whitening Perth treatments can restore your smile’s brightness safely and effectively.

At First Impressions Dental, we offer customised whitening solutions that work with your lifestyle and sensitivity level.

Keep Your Smile Bright with First Impressions Dental

A radiant smile boosts confidence and makes a lasting impression. By making smart food choices and partnering with our team, you can enjoy both your favourite foods and a beautiful smile. Have questions about keeping your teeth white? Our friendly team is just a call away. Contact your closest clinic today.

Dr Silas Prashant

Dr. Silas Prashant brings over 20 years of passionate dental care to First Impressions Dental, where he's dedicated to creating confident smiles and comfortable experiences for every patient. Beyond his extensive training in restorative and same-day ceramic dentistry, Dr. Silas balances his commitment to continuous learning with family time, gardening, and fishing adventures—bringing the same warmth and personal touch to your dental care that defines his approach to life.