Having pearly white teeth is a symbol of beauty and health. However, with the consumption of coffee, tea and other food and drinks with staining tendencies, our teeth tend to lose their natural whiteness, resulting in yellowing or discoloration.

Many people opt for chemical teeth whitening treatments, which can be expensive and harmful to oral health, especially when used too much. Fortunately, there are several home remedies and natural foods that can help whiten your teeth safely and effectively. Here are six foods that will naturally whiten your teeth.

1. Strawberries

Strawberries are high in malic acid, which is a natural astringent that removes surface stains on teeth and whitens them. The Vitamin C found in strawberries also acts as a natural bleaching agent.

To use strawberries to whiten your teeth, rub a ripe strawberry over your teeth and leave the juice to sit for a few minutes before rinsing well with water. You can also make a mixture of one mashed strawberry and half a teaspoon of baking soda, apply it to your teeth, and leave it for 5 minutes before rinsing.

2. Pineapple

The enzyme bromelain found in pineapples acts as a natural stain remover. It also helps break down the plaque that causes yellow teeth.

Eat a few slices of fresh pineapple every day, or rub the inside of a pineapple peel over your teeth for a few minutes to help remove stains and whiten your teeth naturally.

3. Cheese

High in calcium and phosphorous, cheese is a superfood that not only strengthens your teeth and bones but can also whiten them. Calcium and phosphorous help to remineralize teeth and enamel, which can make them appear brighter.

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Eating hard cheese after a meal or as a snack can reduce the acidity in the mouth and help whiten your teeth.

4. Baking Soda

Baking soda has been used for centuries as a natural teeth whitener and can be found in many toothpaste brands. Baking soda neutralizes acid and reduces the risk of tooth decay, and its mild abrasive nature removes stains on tooth enamel.

Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a little bit of water to form a paste and brush your teeth with it for 2 minutes, and then rinse with water.

5. Apples

Apples help remove stains on teeth and prevent the buildup of plaque that can cause yellow teeth.

The malic acid present in apples acts as a natural astringent, and coupled with the fruit’s crunchy texture, helps scrub away surface stains on teeth. Eating apples as a snack or after a meal can help to naturally whiten your teeth.

6. Water

Drinking water, especially after meals, is essential for dental health. The water helps wash away food particles and harmful bacteria that can cause yellow teeth. It also neutralizes acids in the mouth and helps prevent tooth decay.

Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and looking their best.