Teeth whitening has exploded into a multi-billion dollar industry in recent years, with millions of consumers purchasing an assortment of products each year to improve the appearance of their teeth. Some individuals even opt to undergo expensive whitening procedures at the dentist’s office. While some of the products and procedures are effective at erasing stains and restoring the natural appearance of the teeth, long-term results are often easier to achieve with natural whitening methods. These methods have the added benefit of posing no health risk to the patient in question.

Eating Crunchy Foods

Crunchy foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can have a dramatic impact on tooth health. The abrasive quality of these foods can help to remove plaque and stains on the surface of the tooth. Foods that are highly acidic perform double duty, working to lift imperfections in the tooth’s enamel.

Consuming Beverages with a Straw

It comes as little surprise that popular drinks like coffee, teas, and sodas are all responsible for dulling the appearance of the teeth. While avoiding these drinks altogether is certainly an effective means of whitening the teeth over time, most people find it hard to do. Instead, consider drinking such fluids through a straw. This can help the drink make its way to the throat without coming into contact with the most visible areas of the mouth.

Increasing Dairy Consumption

Some research has suggested that eating cheese following meals can help to prevent tooth decay. Dairy products such as milk and yogurt can also play a role in encouraging oral health, giving the body the calcium it needs to keep teeth strong. The phosphorus in dairy products is also beneficial to the teeth, helping to strengthen the enamel and keep it from becoming damaged by acids.

Things to Avoid

Although certain acids have been shown to increase the appearance of white teeth by removing stained enamel, this can damage the tooth over the course of the long haul. Natural acids in fruits and other sources can be consumed without much risk, but acid should not be deliberately applied to the teeth. Baking soda should also be used sparingly, as too much of it could damage the enamel.

Eating one’s way to whiter teeth is easy when the right foods are consumed regularly. Not only is it inexpensive to whiten teeth in this manner, but no pain or tooth sensitivity will result from these methods. Furthermore, the body as a whole will benefit from a healthier diet.

Author Bio

Lyndsi is a freelance writer and is currently promoting dental advertising through dental direct mail marketing. Lyndsi enjoys cooking and lives in Indiana with her husband.

Another all natural method of whitening your teeth is oil pulling, read about it here.

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