Teeth come in a variety of shades and tones naturally, but a white smile is associated with youth, confidence, and success. While brushing and flossing can keep tooth discoloration away, various factors contribute to the color of your teeth, like the foods you eat. Dark berries, coffee, and red wine are known to stain the enamel, but did you know some foods can combat discoloration? Here are 4 foods that whiten teeth to preserve your beautiful smile.
1. Strawberries
Blueberries and blackberries can stain your teeth, but strawberries can have the opposite effect. They have a high concentration of malic acid, which is also found in many toothpastes. Malic acid is a natural astringent to remove surface stains. However, strawberries also contain citric acid, which can weaken your enamel, so wait at least 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth.
2. Apples and Carrots
Crunchy fruit and vegetables act like natural scrub brushes for your smile. Celery, apples, and carrots can remove plaque and bacteria while increasing saliva production to keep your mouth clean in between brushing and flossing.
3. Water
Water keeps you hydrated while promoting your dental health. It keeps your mouth moist to limit harmful bacteria growth. However, it also removes food and drink residue from your teeth. Drinking a glass of water or rinsing your mouth after eating will help keep your smile whiter and healthier.
4. Cheese
Enamel loss causes your teeth to look yellow because the underlying dentin becomes visible. Cheese contains calcium to strengthen your enamel and bones. It also contains casein, a protein that repairs enamel. Chewing cheese also stimulates saliva production to reduce bacteria and food particles in the mouth.
Preserve Your Stunning Smile
Although the foods you eat are influential on the health and appearance of your smile, they aren’t a substitute for good oral hygiene. Brushing, flossing, and using a daily mouthwash will keep your teeth and gums healthy while ensuring your smile stays bright. Avoid factors that are known to stain teeth, like tobacco, coffee, and tea. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup.
If you’re concerned about the color of your teeth, your dentist has the solutions you need for a bright smile, like a whitening treatment. Your teeth can become up to 8 shades whiter in a single afternoon with an in-office system. You can also achieve professional results from the comfort of your home. Your cosmetic dentist will give you everything you need to revamp your smile in 2 weeks using a take-home kit.
Watch what you eat and keep your dental health a priority to enjoy a confident, dazzling smile that can last for years.
If you are concerned about tooth discoloration, contact our office today to request your consultation for teeth whitening.