Top 7 Foods and Drinks That Whiten Teeth and Improve Oral Health

Good oral hygiene, regular dental cleanings, and professional teeth whitening are the most effective methods for obtaining whiter teeth. However, did you realize that certain foods can also help whiten your teeth? 

Here is a list of seven food and drinks That Whiten Teeth and Improve Oral Health.

Top 7 Foods and Drinks That Whiten Teeth and Improve Oral Health

1. Strawberries

Strawberries contain a high concentration of malic acid, which is commonly found in certain types of toothpaste. Malic acid functions as a natural astringent and aids in the removal of tooth discoloration.

It is essential to note that strawberries contain citric acid, which weakens enamel. Therefore, you should delay at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after consuming strawberries and other acidic foods.

2. Apples, Celery and Carrots

Apples, celery, and carrots are crunchy fruits and vegetables that can remove plaque and bacteria, stimulate saliva production, and provide vitamin and mineral sources that strengthen teeth.

3. Leafy Greens

Folic acid (also known as vitamin B9), which is essential for cell growth and repair, is found in leafy greens such as spinach, romaine lettuce, and kale. Folic acid can reduce inflammation in the gums and make teeth more resistant to plaque and bacteria.

4. Cheese

When enamel erodes due to acidic and sugary foods, parched mouth, and other factors, the underlying dentin may become exposed, causing your teeth to appear yellower. The calcium in cheese strengthens tooth enamel and bones. Casein, a type of protein found in cheese, serves an important role in repairing tooth enamel. Additionally, the act of chewing (cheese) increases salivation, which helps displace pathogens in the mouth and keep the mouth clean. Choose aged, soft-ripened, and blue cheeses while avoiding processed cheeses (such as American and nacho cheese).

5. Sugar-free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum between meals and munchies stimulates salivation and aids in neutralizing and rinsing away the acids that form in the mouth as food breaks down. This protects your teeth, promotes excellent oral health, and maintains their cleanliness.

Also read: Top 3 Fruits for Teeth

6. Water

Saliva, which consists of approximately 99 percent water, is essential to dental health. Water displaces sugary beverages that erode tooth enamel and induce cavities. In addition, water contains proteins and minerals (such as fluoride) that prevent dental decay and gum disease by protecting tooth enamel and preventing tooth decay. To maintain a whiter, livelier smile, rinse your mouth with water after consuming pigment-rich foods or liquids. 

7. Baking Soda

If you ever run out of toothpaste, baking soda is a suitable substitute. Due to its alkalinity and moderate abrasiveness, baking soda helps remove plaque and discoloration from the surface of teeth. Brush your teeth for two minutes with a paste made from baking soda and water.