Over time tooth enamel can deteriorate and start to yellow. Many people, especially women, may want to whiten and brighten their teeth because feeling good about your smile affects your overall self confidence. Bleach and whitening products can be expensive or cause more damage to your teeth. While some foods do wear down your teeth, there are some natural foods that help to strengthen teeth and gums all on their own.
If you are wanting a more natural way to whiten your teeth and feel that your smile could be improved, here are some healthy foods that can help lighten your teeth. Not only does eating these foods help improve the look of your teeth, they also have health benefits for the rest of your body as well.
1- Pineapples
Tart fruits such as oranges and pineapples help the mouth to produce more saliva. The purpose of our saliva is to help clean our teeth naturally. Producing more saliva can increase the cleaning power that already exists for our teeth.
Beware of acidic fruits and acidic drinks because acid can also deteriorate tooth enamel. Beware and try not to put lemons or pineapple directly on your teeth for a prolonged period of time.
2- Strawberries
Strawberries contain an enzyme called malic acid, which helps to whiten teeth. Eating the fruit itself might not show noticeable results, but mashing them up and letting it sit on your teeth for around five minutes would. After letting it sit for five minutes you can then rise and brush your teeth normally.
3- Crunchy Vegetables
These vegetables are packed with fiber and help eliminate plaque build up. Carrots, broccoli, onions, garlic and celery are great options for brightening teeth enamel. We all know that fruits and vegetables are good for us, so eating them not only helps your whole body and your teeth.
Broccoli is also a source of iron which can strengthen enamel while onions slow the rate of plaque production.
4- Apples
‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away,’ because apples contain the same malic acid found in strawberries. The process of biting an apple can have benefits for your teeth. Biting an apple can help remove plaque particles from settling on your teeth. Plague removes the top layer of your teeth and causes them to look more yellow.
5- Cheese Or Milk
The calcium in cheese, yogurt and milk strengthens bones. Substances such as lactic acid, phosphorus and calcium all prevent tooth decay. Yogurt should be your first choice for dairy foods as it has proteins as well that can help your tooth from acids.
Chomping on hard cheeses can help remove food particles from the crevices of your teeth and the buildup of these particles.
6- Water
Sugary beverages can present major problems for your tooth enamel. Acid in soda, juice and coffee can yellow your teeth. Drinking water helps remove things from your teeth, but also doesn’t contain acid that can damage your teeth. Water has multiple health benefits and can help cleanse your mouth.
7- Baking Soda
While baking soda isn’t exactly a food we eat every day, it can be included in other baked goods and used by itself to lighten teeth. Baking soda can be used like toothpaste and has mild abrasiveness that helps to scrub away stains. Mix baking soda and water to create a paste, then just apply with your toothbrush. If you use baking soda you should follow the same time as regular brushing of two minutes.
Jenson Dental
Having regular dental checkups and cleanings can help keep your teeth looking bright. With Jenson Dental in Brigham City you will achieve the best smile possible. Each patient is different and has unique needs. We will work with you to provide you the best care and help you get on with the rest of your day.
Jenson Dental is a progressive family dental care and we work to give you the best care possible. We offer dental cleanings, tooth extractions, root canals, dental implants, teeth whitening and more. We offer free 30 minute consultations to help you figure out what dental service is right for you. When you aren’t confident in your smile it can affect your whole life. We want people to feel their best so contact us for cosmetic dentistry services.