A bright, white smile is often associated with good health and confidence. However, teeth can naturally become yellow or discoloured over time due to ageing, lifestyle choices, or certain foods and drinks. While professional teeth whitening treatments are effective, they can be expensive and sometimes harsh on your teeth. Luckily, certain foods can help you achieve a whiter smile naturally.
Here are some of the best foods to eat that can help whiten yellowing teeth and improve your overall oral health:
1. Apples
Apples act like a natural toothbrush due to their crunchy texture, which helps scrub away plaque. Their high water content also stimulates saliva production, which washes away food particles.
2. Strawberries
Strawberries contain malic acid, a natural enzyme that can help remove surface stains on teeth. However, due to their natural sugars and acids, be sure to rinse your mouth afterward.
3. Carrots and celery
These crunchy veggies increase saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth and wash away bacteria and debris that cause staining.
4. Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that acts as a natural stain remover and breaks down plaque. It can also help with overall oral hygiene.
5. Cheese and dairy
Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk contain calcium and lactic acid, which help strengthen enamel and reduce staining by promoting mineral replenishment of your teeth.
6. Broccoli
Broccoli is fibrous and helps scrub teeth when eaten raw. It also provides iron, which can create a protective barrier on the surface of teeth.
7. Baking soda (in moderation)
While not a food, using a small amount of baking soda with water to brush your teeth occasionally can help polish and whiten them by breaking down stains.
8. Nuts and seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and other nuts and seeds are slightly abrasive and help scrub stains off teeth while chewing.
9. Onions and garlic
Although they may cause bad breath, raw onions and garlic have antibacterial properties that help reduce plaque build-up, which can lead to tooth discolouration.
10. Water
Simply drinking water, especially after meals or consuming staining foods or drinks (like coffee or wine), can help wash away residue and prevent stains from settling.
In addition to eating these foods, maintain good oral hygiene habits like brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleaning for the best results.
