We’re always told what foods and drinks to avoid for white teeth: don’t drink coffee, avoid dark sodas…you get the picture. It may seem like we are only left to depend on special toothpastes or gag-worthy rinses to achieve those pearly whites we all dream of.
But did you know there are actually foods out there you can eat for whiter teeth? Drop your expensive teeth whitening chemicals and bite into some of these foods instead.
1. Apples
Photo by Lila Seeley
The crispiness of ripe apples strengthens your gums with every crunch. The fruit’s high water content also works to increase saliva production, washing away unwanted mouth bacteria. Maybe the wicked witch in Snow White only wanted the princess to have whiter teeth?
2. Celery
Photo by Ataya Kanji
If you’d rather not eat an apple, munch on some celery instead. The veggie has the same benefits towards cleaning your chompers. The excess chewing needed to breakdown celery increases saliva production and naturally massages your gums.
3. Cheese
Photo by Ataya Kanji
Cheeses contain high levels of calcium and very few carbohydrates. This makes cheese great for your teeth. The calcium helps to rebuild tooth enamel, strengthening your teeth and protecting them from nasty bacteria. What’s better than another excuse to indulge in some melty gooey savory cheese?
4. Green Tea
Photo by Lila Seeley
This healthy beverage contains catechin, a substance that actually fights the bacteria that causes excess plaque build-up. The high antioxidant content in green tea also combats the build-up of bacteria. Green tea is naturally caffeinated, so it is a great alternative to the darker liquid drinks such as coffee and black tea to protect your chompers from nasty stains.
5. Kiwi
Photo by Justin Shannin, Northwestern University
These little fruits are jam-packed with vitamin C. Vitamin C deficiencies can cause your gums to break down, further exposing your teeth to harmful bacteria. Oranges are also great sources of vitamin C, but the acidity of citrus fruits can actually break down your enamel, so stick with kiwi for that flashy smile.
6. Onions
Photo by Ataya Kanji
Raw onions are a very strong anti-bacterial, which aids in killing the bacteria in your mouth that causes stains and tooth decay. Plus, the urge to brush out the stench of raw onion from your poor mouth might aid in the teeth whitening process. Choose your battles wisely.
7. Seeds & Nuts
Photo by Ataya Kanji
Chewing and crunching down on hard foods helps to rub unwanted plaque and stains off your teeth. Almonds and sesame seeds are especially great for you teeth because of their high calcium content. Pack a handful of roasted or raw almonds for a midday snack, or sprinkle some sesame seeds on your salad and your dentist will shower you with praises.
8. Strawberries
Photo by Ataya Kanji
This berry has a special enzyme that actually works to remove stains on your teeth. Try mashing up one or two strawberries and rubbing the paste on your teeth. Rinse and flash that commercial smile. Just make sure to check for seeds first.
9. Wasabi
Photo by Gabby Phi, University of Texas
Surprise, this powerfully spicy sushi condiment contains a substance that inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. Load your next sushi roll with wasabi and leave the restaurant flashing your bright pearly whites and your newly cleared sinuses.
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