13 Foods that can whiten teeth naturally
04/16/2020 / By Joanne Washburn / Comments
13 Foods that can whiten teeth naturally

Certain pigment-rich foods like blueberries, pomegranates, tomato sauce and coffee can leave dark, unsightly stains on the surface of the teeth. Poor dental hygiene and excess consumption of foods that erode tooth enamel can also lead to yellow teeth, tartar and cavities.

While regular brushing and flossing are two of the most effective deterrents against tooth decay, gum disease and yellow teeth, certain foods can maintain good oral health and whiten teeth naturally.

Plant oils

Healthy oils that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as sesame oil, coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil, also have antibacterial properties that promote healthy gums and eliminate cavities. Use the oil as a natural mouth wash and swish it around the mouth for at least 15 minutes to completely dislodge plaque, stains and bacteria.

Strawberries

Strawberries are an excellent source of malic acid, a naturally occurring chemical that acts as a bleaching agent. Most commercially available tooth-whitening products contain pure malic acid due to its ability to eliminate stains and restore the natural color of tooth enamel.

Apple

Like strawberries, apples also contain high levels of malic acid, a tart-tasting compound that eliminates plaque and acid-causing bacteria. The apple itself acts as a natural scrub to remove stains and lighten yellow teeth.

Celery

Snack on celery sticks to quickly eliminate unsightly stains and bad breath. This fibrous, water-rich vegetable acts as a natural toothbrush to get rid of plaque, food debris and bacteria. Its high water content also stimulates saliva production to cleanse the mouth.

Carrots

Carrots are excellent sources of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A. This micronutrient not only improves vision but also strengthens tooth enamel. Chewing carrot sticks also triggers the production of saliva that eliminates stains, food debris and odor-causing bacteria.

Broccoli

Munching on raw broccoli stalks can eliminate food particles and bacteria that erode enamel. Broccoli has a fibrous and abrasive texture that acts as a natural brush to remove plaque. Broccoli also has high levels of iron that prevent mouth sores, gum disease and tooth sensitivity.

Raw cheese

Unprocessed dairy products like cheese and milk contain high amounts of lactic acid, a substance that can protect against tooth decay. Lactic acid can also dislodge food debris and whiten teeth naturally. Plus, dairy products are excellent sources of calcium, an essential component of teeth and bones.

Water

Downing a glass of water after consuming pigment-rich foods can prevent the formation of stains on the teeth. Water also reduces the overall acidity of the mouth, which can damage tooth enamel and cause sensitive teeth.

Pineapple

Pineapple is an excellent source of bromelain, a powerful enzyme that can effectively eliminate stains and scrape off plaque. Bromelain also fortifies tooth enamel to prevent erosion that gives way to cavities.

Shiitake mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms contain high concentrations of lentinan, a type of natural sugar that prevents tooth decay. The fibrous texture of the mushroom can also dislodge plaque, eliminate food debris and inhibit the growth of disease-causing bacteria.

Salmon

Vitamin D-rich foods like salmon aid the absorption of bone-building nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. Salmon also promotes healthy gums and prevents plaque buildup that can lead to dental caries.

Basil

Basil leaves are commonly used to treat inflammation and digestive problems. But basil can also be used to prevent the formation of cavities thanks to its antibacterial activities. To create a paste, combine finely chopped basil leaves and olive oil or coconut oil. Leave the paste on the teeth to dislodge plaque and remove stains. Repeat as necessary.

Onions and garlic

Bulb vegetables like onions and garlic contain active sulfur-rich compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The active compounds are released as soon as you slice or crush the bulb. To remove stains and plaque buildup, chew on a raw slice of onion or garlic. The bulb’s antioxidants can also treat swollen gums, eliminate bacteria and lower the risk of gum disease and oral infections.

Teeth inevitably yellow over time, but certain foods can slow the process and eliminate unsightly stains. That being said, good oral health is still the key to proper maintenance of the teeth and gums. To maintain healthy teeth, avoid foods that erode enamel, like sweets and sodas. You can also increase calcium intake to fortify teeth and prevent dental caries.

Sources:

My.ClevelandClinic.org

LifeHack.org

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