If you’ve always wanted that Hollywood-quality smile with gleaming white teeth, you might be considering over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments. For slightly discolored teeth, you may not need this. Instead, try these natural foods to remove stains or promote whiter, healthier teeth.

4 Foods to Try for Teeth Whitening

1. Strawberries

Strawberries may stain your clothes, but when it comes to the surface of your teeth, they are a natural and delicious astringent that can lighten or get rid of tooth discoloration. You can add more strawberries to your diet or make a paste of mashed strawberries to apply to your teeth once a week.

2. Nuts

It may sound strange, but that satisfying crunch from eating a handful of nuts can also help scrub away stains. They act as an exfoliant on those surface stains—and they’re a satisfying, protein-filled snack that promotes overall good health. They’ll also keep you from munching on sugary, teeth-staining snacks like candy.

3. Water

You know that water is vital to your overall health, but it also washes away the bacteria that causes decay and the pigments in beverages like red wine and soda that can stain your teeth. Drink water with meals, or right after, to get the maximum benefit for those times when you can’t get to a bathroom to brush your teeth.

4. Hard Cheeses

Hard cheese, like cheddar, won’t remove existing stains, but they promote whiter teeth by preventing discoloration. Cheese contains casein phosphate, which reduces the acid levels that can harm the enamel that protects your teeth from stains. In addition, cheese stimulates saliva production, which washes away stain-causing foods. A nibble of cheese a few times throughout a meal, or in lieu of dessert, is a delicious way to keep your teeth healthy and white.

The team at Milford Dental in Ohio has been treating patients like family for more than 40 years, which is why they consistently earn five-star reviews. They are invested in helping you maintain good oral health through preventative dental care, both at home and in the dentist office. From cleanings and teeth whitening to veneers and fillings, Milford Dental offers quality care in an environment that will put you at ease. Call (513) 575-­9600 or request your appointment online today.