Bright, white teeth make for a beautiful smile and indicate good oral health. Stained, yellow teeth are not only unsightly, but can be symptoms of tooth decay and gum disease. While daily flossing and brushing can keep teeth bright, there are a few foods and drinks that have teeth whitening effects. 

What Foods and Drinks Can Keep Your Teeth White?

1. Water

Water is vital for your overall health, including your oral health. It forms 99% of saliva, which acts as your mouth's self-cleaning solution. By drinking more water, you are consuming less soda, juice, coffee and other drinks that contain sugar. When sugar breaks down, it creates acid, which erodes enamel. Water helps neutralize acidity, reducing the risk of stains, cavities and tooth decay. Additionally, water can wash away bacteria and debris that stain teeth.

2. Apples

Apples and other crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as celery and cauliflower, require a lot of chewing. In turn, that stimulates saliva production, which helps clean the mouth as mentioned above. Chewing these crunchy foods can also function as scrubbing and teeth-whitening. Plus, apples contain vitamins and nutrients that are beneficial to your teeth and body.

3. Cheese

Calcium is essential to forming and maintaining healthy teeth. One of the principal sources of calcium is dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheese. Besides calcium, they are also rich in lactic acid and the protein called casein, which both fortify and protect enamel against decay. Chewing cheese has the same mouth-cleansing advantages as crunchy vegetables and fruits. 

4. Strawberries

While strawberries may seem like they would stain teeth due to their deep red color, they contain malic acid. This alpha-hydroxy acid has bleaching properties, which is why mashed strawberries are often mixed with baking soda in natural teeth whitening recipes. However, one factor to consider is that strawberries also contain citric acid, which can weaken enamel, so it's important to combine this with brushing.

For professional teeth whitening services to brighten your smile, contact the The Montana Center for Laser Dentistry PLLC. Featuring convenient locations in Whitefish and Kalispell, MT, this renowned practice offers KöR Whitening, a safe and effective teeth whitening service, among many others. Call (406) 862-1010 today to make an appointment or visit the website for service details.