We all would love a set of gleaming pearly whites. It is not something that is easily attained, but there are lots of ways we can try to keep it healthy & bright. Making an appointment to have your teeth professionally whitened is fantastic, but can become pricey. Over-the-counter whitening products do a good job, but what about all of the chemicals? When you break it down, much of our diet includes foods and drinks that don’t help in keeping our teeth a brilliant white, but instead, stain them. However, there are plenty of foods that do the reverse. The following is a list of foods that are not only nutritious but will also help whiten our teeth at the same time.
One of the more obvious options has to be the fruit. As the leaves begin to change, we must take advantage of a delicious autumn staple. Apples are known to play a huge role in good health, so are we really surprised they also help whiten up our teeth too? The crispiness of the apple is what is doing most of the work; every time you bite into an apple, it helps strengthen your gums. And the juiciness of the apple produces saliva, which clears out all of the cavity-forming bacteria. Another autumn fruit that does similar work while also neutralizing odor-causing, staining bacteria for your teeth is the pear. If you are looking for citrus, try an orange. Not only is vitamin C good for you, but the citric acid also scours your teeth. But be careful…any type of acidic food will slowly wear down your teeth’s enamel, leaving them more prone to stains and cavities. Everything in moderation. So throw some fruit into your next salad. Not only will you have a yummy lunch, but you’ll have a set of pearly whites in no time.
When it comes to vegetables, it’s pretty obvious that they’re good for us but for some reason, we never correlate an onion as a dental secret. But it’s true. This colorless veggie won’t stain your teeth and the natural alliums are actually good for you. Another fun fact: if you eat anything oniony, you’re much more apt to brush your teeth afterward. Broccoli is another veggie you wouldn’t exactly guess as teeth-friendly, but broccoli is probably Mother Nature’s most blatant toothbrush. Munching on these little “brushes” will not only supply your body with iron but will give your teeth a quick scrub. Carrots and celery are the next in this line of veggies. All great vitamins are packed inside, and the high water content is great for saliva production. And if you think about it, celery is like nature’s floss.
Dairy is a superfood that works from the inside out. Chockful of calcium, foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese strengthen your teeth and gums. The stronger your teeth enamel is, the whiter & healthier they become. Drinking your milk as a kid wasn’t just some ploy mom used to torture you. She actually knows best so drink up! Your smile will thank you for it.
If you would like further information regarding teeth-friendly whitening foods, contact Tory Hill Dental at 207-929-6626 to schedule an appointment today. Or visit toryhilldental.com for additional information.