While regular brushing and flossing is a must for good oral health, the food you eat also plays a significant role in keeping your teeth pearly white. Here are 15 foods that can help you achieve a whiter smile:.
1. Strawberries
Strawberries contain malic acid, which acts as a natural tooth whitener. Eating strawberries can also help remove surface stains on your teeth and promote healthy gums.
2. Pineapple
The enzyme bromelain found in pineapple is effective in removing stains and debris from your teeth. Pineapple also promotes saliva production, which helps to wash away bacteria and food particles from your mouth.
3. Cheese
Cheese contains calcium, which strengthens your tooth enamel. Eating cheese also helps to neutralize the pH level in your mouth, which reduces the risk of tooth decay.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in iron, which helps to protect your teeth from acid erosion and stains. Eating broccoli also promotes saliva production, which helps to wash away food debris from your teeth.
5. Apples
Apples are high in fiber, which helps to scrub away plaque and stains from your teeth. Eating apples also increases saliva production, which helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth.
6. Carrots
Carrots are crunchy, and their abrasive texture helps to remove surface stains from your teeth. Carrots are also rich in vitamin A, which helps to strengthen your tooth enamel.
7. Celery
Celery is high in fiber, and the act of chewing celery helps to scrub away plaque and stains from your teeth. Eating celery also promotes saliva production which helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth.
8. Oranges
Oranges are high in vitamin C, which helps to prevent gum disease. Vitamin C also promotes the production of collagen, which is vital for healthy gums that hold your teeth in place.
9. Cauliflower
Cauliflower contains a mineral called boron, which helps to keep teeth strong and healthy. Eating cauliflower also promotes saliva production, which helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth.
10. Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong teeth and bones. Eating sesame seeds also helps to scrub away plaque and stains from your teeth.
11. Kiwi Fruit
Kiwi fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help to prevent gum disease and promote healthy gums. Kiwi fruit also helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
12. Onions
While onions may not be the best for your breath, they are high in sulfur compounds that help to kill bacteria in your mouth. Eating onions raw is the best method to get the most benefit.
13. Water
Drinking water helps to rinse away food debris and bacteria from your mouth. Water also helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
14. Green Tea
Green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants that help to prevent gum disease and reduce bad breath. Green tea also promotes saliva production, which helps to neutralize the acid in your mouth.
15. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural whitening agent that helps to remove surface stains from your teeth. You can mix baking soda with water to make a paste and use it as a toothpaste alternative a few times a week.