While cosmetic dentistry procedures such as in-office whitening are most powerful for achieving a vivid smile, there are many things you can do at home to whiten your teeth, too. In addition to using whitening toothpaste, you might consider incorporating some enamel-friendly foods with natural brightening properties into your diet. Here are a few of the most powerful options to try.

7 Foods That Whiten Teeth Naturally

1. Apples

Apples contain malic acid, a substance found in some toothpaste. The compound increases saliva and has stain-removing properties. Chewing on an apple can scrub your teeth to remove staining agents and keep bacteria at bay.

2. Strawberries

Similar to apples, strawberries contain traces of malic acid. They also contain ellagitannins, or antioxidants that can reduce stain-adhesive bacteria and inflammation in the mouth. Strawberries’ high levels of Vitamin C can also prevent periodontal disease.

3. Cheese

General and cosmetic dentistry professionals often advocate adding cheese to patients’ diets. Not only does hard cheese have teeth-strengthening nutrients like calcium and protein, but it also cleans teeth by stimulating saliva production.

4. Broccoli

With its high fiber content, broccoli can reduce inflammation found in the mouth and entire body. The iron content in broccoli also delivers a barricade of protection against enamel-damaging bacteria, preventing cavities and keeping enamel healthy-looking in the long run.

5. Seeds & Nuts

Sunflower seeds, almonds, and walnuts provide a natural exfoliating remedy to remove surface stains and plaque. Aim for seeds and nuts with harder, more abrasive textures to help maintain a vivid, white smile.

6. Pineapple

Pineapple is notorious for its content of bromelain, an ingredient with anti-inflammatory and cleansing properties. Dentists believe there may be stain-removing agents in bromelain, which is why the ingredient can even be found in popular kinds of toothpaste.

7. Water

While commonly overlooked as a dental-friendly choice, consuming enough H2O can help keep stains at bay. In fact, it can help you maintain the results of cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as whitening, better than teeth-staining beverages like coffee, tea, soda, and wine.

If you’re seeking a bit more whitening power than what your diet alone can achieve, allow the cosmetic dentistry experts from Four Corners Dental Group in Alaska to help. In addition to comprehensive preventive care, they also offer cosmetic solutions such as professional-grade whitening treatments. Browse through their services online or call (907) 258-3384 to reach the Anchorage location, or (907) 376-2790 for the Wasilla facility.