Top 10 Foods that Stain your Teeth

If you enjoy a daily cup of tea or coffee, you’ve likely noticed the effect it can have on your teeth. Many foods and drinks are known to cause staining and discoloration over time. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the most common culprits. By limiting these and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can help keep your smile looking brighter.

What causes tooth stains?

‍Tooth staining is often caused by chemical compounds called chromogens, which give certain foods and drinks their deep colour and can cling to tooth enamel. Stains are also more likely with items that contain tannins, which make it easier for pigments to stick. On top of this, acidic foods and drinks can erode the enamel, leaving teeth more vulnerable to discolouration. As a general rule, if something can stain your tongue or even your clothes, it’s likely to stain your teeth too.

Common foods that stain teeth

‍Many everyday foods and drinks can contribute to tooth staining. While some of these are packed with valuable vitamins and minerals, they can also leave behind unwanted discolouration. You don’t have to cut them out completely—especially if you only enjoy them occasionally—but if you consume them often and are concerned about staining, it may be worth reducing your intake.

Foods and drinks most likely to stain your teeth

• Tea and coffee – Whether it’s black, green, or herbal, tea contains tannins that can stain teeth, and coffee is another well-known culprit.
• Red wine – Rich in colour and tannins, red wine is one of the biggest causes of staining.
• Cola – Its dark colouring can leave stains, while its high acidity also wears down enamel.
• Fruit juices – Dark juices like cranberry, blueberry, and grape can leave behind stains despite their health benefits.
• Berries – Nutritious and packed with antioxidants, but their strong pigments can discolour teeth.
• Beetroot – Known for its rich colour and nutrients, but it’s also notorious for staining.
• Tomato-based sauces – The deep red pigments in tomatoes can cling to enamel, causing discolouration.
• Curry – Bold spices, especially turmeric, can leave long-lasting yellow stains.
• Soy sauce – Its dark colouring can linger on teeth after meals.
• Balsamic vinegar – A flavourful dressing, but its dark pigment makes it a staining risk.

How to prevent food and drink from staining your teeth

Some people are more prone to staining than others, and this often comes down to factors like enamel thickness, genetics, and even how much saliva your mouth produces. However, the biggest contributor is usually poor oral hygiene. The good news? With the right habits, you can minimise staining and keep your smile looking bright.

Here are some practical tips to help protect your teeth from discolouration:

• Limit or swap certain foods and drinks – If you notice staining from your favourites, try reducing how often you have them or choose alternatives. For example, swap a strong cup of tea for a lighter herbal blend or flavoured hot water.
• Rinse with water – After consuming foods or drinks that stain, rinsing your mouth with plain water helps wash away pigments before they cling to your teeth.
• Use a straw – When drinking cola, juice, or other dark beverages, sipping through a straw can limit direct contact with your teeth.
• Chew sugar-free gum – Gum containing xylitol stimulates saliva production, which naturally helps cleanse and protect your teeth.
• Eat crunchy fruit and veg – Foods like apples, carrots, and celery boost saliva flow and gently scrub your teeth, acting as natural stain removers.
• Brush regularly – Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste is essential. Your dentist may also recommend a whitening toothpaste to help reduce surface stains.
• See your dentist or hygienist – Regular check-ups and professional cleanings are key. Your dental team can advise on products to reduce staining and discuss options such as air polishing or professional whitening if you’d like to brighten your smile further.

With these steps, you can enjoy a healthy, balanced diet without letting tooth staining dull your smile.

Can tooth stains be removed?

‍Yes—there are several ways to reduce or even remove tooth stains. Brushing twice daily with a good fluoride toothpaste helps prevent stains from building up, while regular visits to your dentist or hygienist can remove more stubborn discolouration through professional cleaning. If you’d like to brighten your smile further, your dentist can also recommend safe and effective whitening treatments tailored to your needs.

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