Your smile is often the first thing people see when you greet them, reflecting who you are. So naturally, you want your pearly whites to shine and project the image of the happy and healthy person you are. While there are many products on the market to enhance your teeth, did you know there are also foods and drinks that act as natural teeth whiteners?
According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 99.7% of adults say they value a healthy white smile. Additionally, research says that people perceive those with healthy teeth as being more successful professionally and socially essential.
We’ve compiled a list of foods and drinks you can enjoy while brightening your tooth enamel. So next time you make your grocery list, add these items to brighten up that smile.
Strawberries
This one might be surprising, as many think of the red color and myriad of seeds that can get stuck in your teeth as a potential hazard to your smile. But alas, strawberries contain malic acid, which works like a natural astringent, removing surface discoloration.
Cheese
Cheese has all of the right ingredients for a whiter smile. Rich in calcium, protein, and phosphorus, these ingredients buffer mouth acids and repair and remineralize your teeth.
Apples
An apple a day does more than keep the doctor away. Crunchy apples work as a natural abrasive scrub, cleaning your teeth while you eat. Apples also contain the same malic acid as strawberries, removing and preventing stains as you enjoy your healthy snack.
Celery
Just like those apples, celery is another crunchy food that will help to create extra saliva and prevent plaque, which stains tend to stick to.
Water
We are not just trying to keep you hydrated! Water can help prevent the formation of stains on your teeth. Drinking water displaces the sugar in your mouth that causes tooth decay and damages your tooth enamel. Water lowers the acidity in your mouth, reducing the possibility of damaged tooth enamel.
Broccoli
You might be seeing a pattern here: crunchy fruits and vegetables are great for your smile. As you chew broccoli, the florets work like a toothbrush, cleaning your teeth. Additionally, broccoli contains a lot of iron, which prevents harmful bacteria and acid erosion.
Baking Soda
Baking soda may not taste great on its own, but if you are ever low on toothpaste, it is an excellent option in a pinch. In addition, baking soda can remove plaque and is known to be a home remedy for teeth whitening.
Next time you are hungry for a snack, grab one of these options to fill you up and brighten your smile simultaneously!
If it is time for you to have a regular check-up or think you might need to have your wisdom teeth removed, reach out to Value Dental Care. Our trained staff is always ready to help you with all of your oral care needs. We offer high-quality care at affordable prices. Email or call us today to schedule an appointment at our Spring Hill (352-684-1274) or Crystal River (352-794-6139) locations.
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