Eating for white teeth is more a process of avoiding stain-causing foods than eating certain foods that are teeth whiteners. Nothing works as well as professional dentistry, but certain fruits and vegetables do aid somewhat in the quest. Results are not quick or dramatic, but can still show some success.
Considerations
To keep teeth white, people should avoid stain-causing foods and substances as much as possible. Some of these include coffee, tea, blueberries, red wine and soy sauce. A simple rule is any food which causes a stubborn laundry stain can stain teeth also. Brushing teeth or at least rinsing one's mouth with water after consuming these foods helps a great deal. Tobacco also causes staining.
Identification
Some foods remove bacteria which causes plaque, the substance that hardens into yellowish tartar if not brushed away soon enough. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are the best bet here. Apples are perfect, and cauliflower, carrots and celery work also. The fiber cleans teeth, and these foods also stimulate production of saliva, which helps to keep plaque from forming.
Function
Lemon juice can have a whitening effect on teeth, but dentists advise against it because the acidic character can damage tooth enamel. A better fruit to try is the strawberry. A mashed strawberry can be combined with 1/2 tsp. of baking soda and water for a paste that provides some whitening benefit. Teeth should be brushed with toothpaste afterward to remove the fruit residue, gently so as not to cause any gum or enamel damage from the strawberry seeds. Baking soda also can be used alone with water for a paste. Either method should be used only once a week or less, because baking soda is hard on enamel.
Types
A teaspoon of white apple cider vinegar mixed with a glass of water makes an effective mouthwash for teeth whitening. It's important to dilute the vinegar with water because otherwise vinegar may damage tooth enamel over time.
Although not a food, hydrogen peroxide is the main ingredient in most whitening products, including those used in professional dental procedures. The 3-percent hydrogen peroxide solution found in the brown bottle at discount stores and pharmacies can be used as a mouthwash at home for its bleaching properties--just be careful not to swallow it.
Prevention/Solution
Good dental care is the best preventive measure to keep teeth white. Brushing teeth after every meal rather than just twice a day is a good benefit. Changing to a new toothbrush at least every 2 months also helps, because bristles become worn down. Flossing at least once a day removes the residue that can eventually turn into tartar and appear as yellow areas around gum lines. A professional cleaning by a dentist at least once a year also is an excellent way to keep teeth white.
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