Do you want sparkling white teeth? Not only do regular dental care and checkups give your teeth the desired color, but your diet also affects the color of your teeth. Some foods and drinks cause staining and discolor your teeth, like coffee, tea, and wine. Fortunately, many foods can whiten teeth, as well.
1. Pineapple
Do you already love this sweet tropical fruit? Well, you’re in luck. Pineapple is number one on our list of foods that whiten teeth.
Have you ever noticed a tingling sensation on your tongue and lips when eating pineapple? Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which triggers the tingling. Bromelain is known as a protease, and it splits other proteins apart by cutting the chains of amino acids.
This tingling enzyme is especially beneficial because plaque that settles on your teeth is made up of proteins. The pineapple enzymes help break down these plaque proteins. In this way, the fruit counteracts unsightly stains.
Plus, pineapple supports digestion and has an anti-inflammatory effect, so make sure to pick some up at the supermarket next time.
2. Apple
Want whiter teeth? Grab an apple.
The apple’s crunchy texture helps scrub teeth clean, bite by bite. In addition, the fruit acid in the apples naturally dissolves discoloration. Since eating apples stimulates saliva production, you also protect your tooth enamel from the acid.
An apple keeps the dentist away a day.
3. Carrot
The carrot is a sweet, crunchy veggie packed with vitamin A that also helps to keep your teeth white. Vitamin A supports and cares for your tooth enamel. In addition, the carrot, like the apple, causes more salivation and thus protects the teeth.
4. Turmeric
If you’ve ever cooked with turmeric, you probably know that the bright yellow color of this root gets stuck everywhere. So does it make your teeth yellow too? On the contrary: turmeric whitens the teeth noticeably.
The root also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for oral health. If you don’t want to bite into the peppery core, you can whip up some smoothies, rice dishes, or salads with turmeric.
5. Dairy Products
Whether you prefer cheese or yogurt, dairy products will help keep your pearly whites shining brightly. The calcium in large quantities prevents discoloration and helps to keep your teeth white. Also, hard cheese has a similar effect to raw vegetables because of its firm consistency, like exfoliation for your teeth.
Bonus 6! Water
Drinking a lot of water is healthy, but does it also make your teeth whiter? Water is an excellent solution if you value a sparkling smile but don’t want to reach for a toothbrush after every little snack.
Rinse your mouth completely with water after every meal and after consuming discoloring beverages such as coffee or black tea. Build up some pressure and push/pull the water into the spaces between your teeth. This is how you remove small food residues and deposits from drinks and ensure a bright white smile.
White Teeth – Friendly Nutrition
You don’t have to visit the dentist right away or have your teeth bleached to counteract slight tooth discoloration. These healthy foods can help you get whiter teeth. But don’t skip out on your regular dental checkups.
Tooth color depends on many factors – from genetics to diligence in daily care to regular professional tooth cleaning. Diet also plays a role in tooth color. If you want to learn more about tooth-friendly nutrition and dental aesthetics, call Danville Family Dentistry today at 317-745-4400 to make an appointment.
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Disclaimer: The information included in this article is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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