Dr.Shook and her team are very professional and thorough. I returned back to them after moving back to the area. They are honest and let me know my gum condition after visiting other practices in other areas. It’s good to know you have a dentist that has your back.
A bright, confident smile can light up a room. If you want to gain a brighter smile, you need to regularly brush and floss while also visiting the dentist for checkups. For more noticeable results, you may even consider professional teeth whitening. However, your diet plays a surprisingly important role in keeping your teeth white. Let’s explore some easy ways to
maintain a dazzling smile through what you eat and drink.
Foods That Help Keep Your Teeth White
- Crunchy Fruits and Veggies
Options like apples, carrots, and celery act like nature’s toothbrushes. As you chew, they scrub your teeth and help remove stains. Enjoy these as healthy snacks between meals for a double benefit – good nutrition and cleaner teeth!
- Dairy Products
Calcium-rich foods like cheese, milk, and plain yogurt strengthen your teeth. A small piece of cheese after a meal can even help protect your teeth from acids in other foods. If you are lactose intolerant, look for other options, like calcium-enriched orange juice, leafy greens like kale and spinach, or plant milk.
- Water
Never underestimate the power of staying hydrated. It rinses away food particles and drinks that might stain your teeth. Try to drink water after every meal or snack for a quick and easy teeth-cleansing boost.
Foods and Drinks That Can Stain Your Teeth
- Coffee and Tea
If you happen to love these caffeinated beverages, you may be disappointed to learn they can stick to teeth. If you can’t resist your daily cup, try drinking through a straw and rinsing your mouth with water afterward.
- Red Wine
The tannins in red wine can lead to staining. Plus, it’s highly acidic, which can be damaging to your tooth enamel. Enjoy in moderation and alternate with sips of water or alongside a meal to minimize staining.
- Dark Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, and pomegranates have strong pigments that can stick to teeth. Try eating them with yogurt or in a smoothie to reduce direct contact with your teeth.
- Tomato Sauce
This tasty sauce is both acidic and brightly colored – a double threat to white teeth. Try eating a salad first to create a protective layer on your teeth before enjoying your pasta.
Easy Habits for a Brighter Smile
- Rinse with Water: After eating or drinking, swish water around in your mouth. This simple habit helps wash away potential staining substances.
- Use a Straw: When enjoying beverages that might stain, a straw can help the liquid bypass your teeth.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing gum for about 20 minutes after eating increases saliva production, which naturally cleans your teeth.
- Wait Before Brushing: Wait about 30 minutes after eating before brushing. This gives your mouth time to neutralize acids from food, preventing enamel damage.
Remember, a healthy diet benefits your whole body, including your teeth. You don’t have to give up foods you love. Just enjoy them in moderation and practice these simple habits. Regular dental checkups are also key to maintaining a bright, healthy smile.
By making small changes to what you eat and drink, and how you consume them, you can help keep your teeth white and healthy. A beautiful smile is just a few bites away!
Call Shook Dental Care today at 310-982-6333 for an appointment in San Pedro, CA. You can also request an appointment online.