The foods we eat can cause teeth to become dull and stained over time. When the enamel has eroded, the dentin underneath is exposed which is naturally yellow in color. Everybody wants to have white teeth and an awesome smile, which explains why cosmetic dental procedures have seen a 12% increase in recent years. If you need a little whitening and prefer to skip the dentist’s appointments, you can find the remedies in your kitchen with this list of foods that whiten teeth and improve your smile.
Coconut oil is rich in antibacterial properties that are good for healthy gums and preventing cavities. Swishing coconut oil around your mouth and spitting it out pulls all the toxins and bacteria from your mouth. Because it’s an oil, it manages to get in the tiny gaps and folds in your mouth where bacteria hide.
The scrubbing action and chewing of fiber-rich fruits, like apples, help keep the teeth white. Apples contain a high concentration of water that stimulates the increase of saliva which helps in washing away bacteria that can lead to a build up of plaque.
Strawberries contain a high level of malic acid- a natural bleaching agent that is found in most teeth whitening products on the market. Their high content in vitamin C also helps in removing plaque which causes discoloration over time.
You might think that raisins will cause tooth decay because they are sticky, but the opposite is true thanks to their concentration of Oleanolic acid which prevents the growth of oral bacteria. Additionally, raisins don’t contain added sugar or sucrose which leads to oral diseases and teeth discoloration.
Bromelain, which is an active enzyme in pineapples, acts as a natural stain remover by helping to loosen plaque from the surface of your teeth preventing tooth decay and erosion while at the same time giving you whiter teeth.
Casein is a component found in cheese that helps reduce the loss of minerals from the enamel. Calcium which is also found in cheese strengthens your teeth and gums which will give you a brighter smile. Eating cheese elevates the PH of your mouth making it hard for bacteria to thrive there.
Broccoli has high fiber content which helps reduce inflammation in your mouth and the rest of the body. Raw broccoli helps in polishing your teeth and the iron in it protects the wall of your teeth. This means that the acid produced by bacteria cannot reach the enamel thereby preventing stains and cavities.
Let’s face it, brushing in between meals can be a bit of a chore. With celery, it not only acts as a toothbrush thanks to its fibrous texture, but the high water content also stimulates the release of more saliva.
Carrots are one of the foods that whiten teeth by preventing plaque buildup by acting as a natural abrasive agent. In between snacks, try having a carrot to wash away the stain-causing bacteria in your mouth.
These foods might help whiten your teeth over time naturally, but seeking professional help will help you in the long run. Contact us to get a free consultation and get the best teeth whitening options available.
