We always hear about the foods and drinks that are bad for teeth or cause staining, such as your morning coffee or soda habit. But what about foods that help whiten teeth? Is that even possible? Surprisingly, many popular foods help improve oral health in addition to helping remove stains gently over time, making teeth whiter and stronger.
Strawberries
Although it seems like red berries would stain teeth, strawberries actually have a naturally occurring substance called malic acid that is found in most over-the-counter tooth-whitening products. So the next time you’re fitting in all your fruits and veggies for the day, be sure to include strawberries and you’ll be helping your teeth, too!
Pineapple
Another fruit that helps keep teeth bright, white and shiny is pineapple. Thanks to a compound called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory properties, pineapple can also help keep your gums healthy! The bromelain also acts as a stain remover and can help with surface staining. Pineapple is an acidic fruit, however, so be sure to rinse your mouth or even brush your teeth 20 minutes after eating it to avoid any damage to your teeth’s enamel, which is easily eroded by highly acidic foods and beverages.
Cheese
Turophiles (cheese lovers) can rejoice! Eating cheese has many benefits for your teeth, including helping to whiten them naturally and remove surface stains. The lactic acid found in cheese helps strengthen enamel and the cheese itself promotes increased saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and protect against tooth decay.
Broccoli and Carrots
The next time you head to a party and see a veggie tray, you can happily indulge knowing that you’re helping whiten your teeth in the process. Both carrots and broccoli help protect and strengthen tooth enamel in addition to helping your mouth increase saliva production and gently removing stains.
For more tips and tricks about oral care, be sure to check back regularly to our blog. If you’d like to learn more about professional teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 970-221-5115.
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526
