Foods that can whiten or stain your teeth

nat rosasco • July 10, 2019
A woman in a black tank top is smiling and looking at the camera.

Teeth whitening continues to be a goal for many people and in addition to the teeth whitening services that are offered at your dental office, and in addition to the different over-the-counter teeth whitening remedies, it is good to be aware of foods that can both help to keep your teeth white and food/drinks that can stain your teeth.

First let us start with the good news. There are five different foods that are known to help keep your teeth white, and they also all offer additional nutritional and health benefits.

1. Cheese : That’s right! Good news for dairy lovers is that cheese, (along with other dairy products, including yogurt and milk), contain lactic acid, along with calcium, which is a known enamel-fortifying mineral, and lactic acid and calcium work to strengthen your teeth and whiten them. In addition, chewing on cheese promotes the saliva production in your mouth, and this helps to wash away any food particles that could stain your teeth

2. Cauliflower : Cauliflower is one of those foods that take a long time to chew. When a food takes longer to chew, that stimulates the saliva production in your mouth more than usual. Saliva is a natural cleanser for your mouth and by eating cauliflower, you can be sure to keep those pearly whites bright

3. Celery : Like cauliflower, celery is another food that takes a long time to chew, so it also stimulates saliva, which washes away food particles and keeps your gums healthy. Other benefits of celery include being a fibrous vegetable that is low in calories and being rich in nutrients

4. Strawberries : Strawberries are not as obvious of a choice to be a food that can help to keep your teeth white, due to their dark color, but strawberries contain the enzyme, malic acid, which naturally works to make your teeth whiter

5. Apples : When you chew on apples, you need to chew quite a few times, and the act of chewing is a natural mouth cleanser. The texture of apples also affords a bit of a scrubbing action in your mouth, and this helps to keep your teeth shining bright

It is also good to be aware of food and drinks that can cause your teeth to be stained. These food and drinks include:

1. Blueberries : Unfortunately, the dark color of the blueberries is known to cause stains on teeth. If you do want to eat blueberries, it is good to wash out your mouth with water after, or even better yet, brush your teeth after eating them

2. Coffee/Tea: Drinking black coffee or black tea is another known culprit of teeth staining. If you need to have your morning coffee, try adding in a splash of milk or if you want to drink tea, opt for a green, herbal or white tea

3. Tomato sauce/ketchup : Tomato sauce, along with any other sauce that is tomato based is known to stain teeth because of the high level of acidity in them, along with the bright color. If you can, choose another kind of sauce that is not tomato based or use mustard instead of using ketchup

4. Popsicles : Although a popsicle can be very refreshing on a hot summer day, they are loaded with sugar and food coloring, which can cause stains on your teeth. If you do have a popsicle, it is important to thoroughly brush your teeth afterwards

5. Red wine: Although there are some health benefits of drinking red wine, red wine is notorious for staining teeth. Make sure you flush your mouth with water after, or you might choose to have a glass of white wine to switch it up

If you are concerned about the color of your teeth and would like to know more about what teeth whitening options are safe and will be most effective for you, contact us today.


Dental office, focus on bright overhead light and dental tools in a white room.

Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know

By nat rosasco • September 15, 2025
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Holiday dental tips

By nat rosasco • September 3, 2025
The holiday season is full of joy, celebrations—and sweets. While indulging in seasonal treats is part of the fun, it’s important to keep oral health in mind. Here are some tips for keeping smiles bright through the festivities. Choose Treats Wisely Sticky candies and caramels cling to teeth, increasing cavity risk. Opt for chocolate, which washes away more easily. Stay Hydrated Drinking water helps rinse away sugars and keeps saliva flowing, your body’s natural defense against decay. Don’t Skip Brushing Busy holiday schedules can throw routines off track, but brushing twice daily and flossing once remain essential. Balance Indulgence with Healthy Foods Pair sweets with cheese, nuts, or crunchy veggies to neutralize acids and protect enamel. Schedule Post-Holiday Cleanings A professional cleaning in January is the perfect way to reset after the holiday season and start the year fresh. Holidays are about family, laughter, and creating memories. With a little mindfulness, you can enjoy every moment without sacrificing your oral health.
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The link between oral health and overall health

By nat rosasco • September 2, 2025
Most people think of dentistry as separate from general health, but the two are closely connected. In fact, your mouth can reveal important clues about what’s happening in the rest of your body. Take gum disease, for example. It begins as gingivitis—red, swollen gums caused by plaque buildup. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that damages bone and tissue. Research has linked periodontitis to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. The connection comes down to inflammation. When the gums are infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body. This low-grade but chronic inflammation is a known contributor to many serious health conditions. Oral health is also linked to pregnancy outcomes. Expectant mothers with untreated gum disease face higher risks of premature birth and low birth weight. Regular dental checkups during pregnancy protect both mom and baby. Even sleep disorders like sleep apnea can be detected in the dental chair. Dentists trained in airway assessment may notice enlarged tissues or teeth grinding, both linked to poor sleep quality.  The takeaway? Oral health is whole-body health. Regular family dental visits do more than preserve smiles—they safeguard overall well-being.
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Why preventive dental care matters for the whole family

By nat rosasco • September 2, 2025
When it comes to family dentistry, prevention is always better than treatment. Routine dental check-ups and cleanings are the backbone of good oral health, helping families avoid cavities, gum disease, and costly procedures down the road. But what exactly makes preventive care so powerful? First, professional cleanings go beyond what brushing and flossing at home can achieve. Even the most diligent brushers miss plaque in hard-to-reach areas. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which only a dental hygienist can safely remove. Regular cleanings not only keep smiles bright but also protect the gums from inflammation and infection. Second, preventive care allows dentists to catch small problems before they become major ones. A cavity spotted early can often be treated with a simple filling. Left untreated, that same cavity may progress to the nerve of the tooth, requiring a root canal or extraction. Preventive dentistry also supports whole-body health. Research continues to show links between oral health and systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and premature birth. Keeping teeth and gums healthy can reduce risks for these serious issues, benefiting the entire family.  For children, early visits build trust and comfort in the dental office. By starting young, kids grow up viewing dental care as a normal and positive part of their routine. For parents, preventive care means less time off work, fewer dental emergencies, and healthier smiles all around. Ultimately, preventive dental visits are about peace of mind. Families who keep up with regular checkups know they’re taking active steps to protect not just their smiles but their overall health.
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5 fun ways to teach kids about oral hygiene

By nat rosasco • August 31, 2025
Convincing kids to brush and floss can sometimes feel like a never-ending battle. But oral hygiene doesn’t have to be a chore—it can actually be fun! Here are five creative ways families can encourage kids to build lifelong healthy habits. Turn Brushing into a Game Set a timer for two minutes and challenge kids to brush until it rings. Brushing apps with music or animations also keep little ones entertained while they clean. Reward Good Habits Create a brushing chart and give stickers for each completed morning and evening session. After a week of consistency, celebrate with a fun activity. Let Kids Choose Their Tools Allowing children to pick their own toothbrush (with their favorite character) and flavored toothpaste gives them a sense of ownership over the process. Brush Together as a Family Kids love to imitate adults. Brushing together not only sets a great example but also turns oral care into quality bonding time. Use Stories and Songs Make up a silly song or story about fighting off “sugar bugs.” Turning brushing into an imaginative adventure keeps kids engaged.  These small strategies can make a big difference. Teaching children the importance of oral hygiene in a positive, playful way sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
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Easing dental anxiety for kids and adults

By nat rosasco • June 2, 2025
Dental anxiety is more common than you might think. Both children and adults can feel nervous about a visit to the dentist. Thankfully, family dentists use a variety of strategies to help patients feel calm and cared for. For kids, the first step is creating positive experiences early. A gentle, friendly approach combined with a fun environment—like colorful walls or small rewards—helps children build trust. Parents can support this by speaking positively about the dentist and avoiding scary words like “hurt” or “shot.” For adults, open communication is key. Many people feel more comfortable when they understand what’s happening during their appointment. Dentists often explain procedures step by step, offering breaks when needed. Modern dentistry also provides comfort options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation. These tools help ease anxiety during longer or more complex treatments.  Simple relaxation techniques can help, too. Deep breathing, listening to music, or even holding a stress ball can make the experience more pleasant. The most important factor? Choosing a dental team that listens and understands. At a family practice, care is personalized, and building long-term relationships helps reduce anxiety over time.
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The importance of pediatric dental care

By nat rosasco • March 14, 2025
Good oral health starts in childhood. Establishing healthy habits early helps prevent dental problems later in life. Here’s why pediatric dental care is essential: When to start dental visits The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday. Early visits help monitor dental development and establish positive oral care habits. Key aspects of pediatric dental care Brushing & flossing : Start brushing with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears. Limiting sugary drinks : Juice and soda increase the risk of early cavities. Encouraging healthy habits : Teaching kids the importance of oral hygiene sets the foundation for lifelong dental health. The role of parents in children's oral health Parents play a crucial role in their child's dental care. Here are some ways to ensure a healthy smile: Supervise brushing and flossing : Young children often need guidance to clean their teeth properly. Make dental visits fun : Choosing a kid-friendly dentist and offering positive reinforcement can reduce dental anxiety. Promote a balanced diet : Providing healthy snacks and meals helps maintain strong teeth. Address dental fears early : If your child is nervous about the dentist, talking about the process in a positive way can help ease anxiety. Long-term benefits of pediatric dental care Good dental habits in childhood lead to fewer cavities, healthier gums, and reduced dental anxiety in adulthood. Investing in early dental care sets the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles and overall well-being. By prioritizing your child’s dental health now, you set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Colorful plate of vegetables and grains with fresh produce scattered around.

Understanding the impact of your diet for dental health

By nat rosasco • March 14, 2025
Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy smile. The foods and drinks you consume directly affect the strength of your teeth and gums. Here are some dietary choices that promote strong oral health: Best foods for your teeth Dairy Products : Rich in calcium and phosphorus, dairy strengthens enamel. Crunchy Fruits & Vegetables : Apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally. Lean Proteins : Chicken, fish, and eggs support tooth structure. Nuts & Seeds : Contain essential minerals that protect against decay.  Foods to avoid Sugary Snacks & Drinks : Lead to cavities and tooth decay. Acidic Foods & Beverages : Citrus fruits and sodas can erode enamel. Sticky Candies & Dried Fruits : Adhere to teeth and encourage bacterial growth. By making smart dietary choices, you can keep your smile healthy and strong.
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The connection between heart health and dental health

By nat rosasco • February 7, 2025
February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to explore the link between oral health and cardiovascular well-being. Research has shown that poor dental hygiene can contribute to heart disease, making regular oral care essential. How Are Oral and Heart Health Connected? Gum disease, or periodontitis, is caused by bacteria that inflame the gums. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Signs of Gum Disease Red, swollen, or bleeding gums Persistent bad breath Receding gums Loose teeth  How to Protect Your Heart Through Oral Care Brush and floss daily to remove harmful bacteria. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup. Avoid tobacco products, which contribute to gum disease and heart problems. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. By prioritizing oral health, you’re also taking steps to protect your heart.
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New year, new smile - resolutions for the new year

By nat rosasco • January 1, 2025
As we step into a new year, many of us set resolutions to improve our health and well-being. While fitness and diet often take center stage, dental health should not be overlooked. A healthy smile not only boosts confidence but also contributes to overall health. Here are some achievable resolutions to maintain excellent oral hygiene in 2025. Brush and floss regularly Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day removes plaque and prevents cavities. Setting reminders can help build consistency. Upgrade your dental routine Consider switching to an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at cleaning teeth and gums. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months. Stay hydrated Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Schedule regular dental checkups Visiting your dentist every six months allows for early detection of potential dental issues and professional cleanings to keep your smile bright. Limit sugary and acidic foods Reducing sugar intake lowers the risk of tooth decay. Swap sugary snacks with healthier options like cheese, nuts, and crunchy fruits and vegetables. By following these simple resolutions, you can maintain a strong and healthy smile throughout the year.