Although there are many effective teeth-whitening products on the market, eating certain foods can also help to maintain natural tooth color. If you want whiter teeth, here are a few foods that will help in between dentist visits.

Foods That Naturally Whiten Teeth

1. Apples

Apples contain malic acid, an organic compound that helps your mouth produce more saliva, which aids in the removal of food particles that cause stains. Additionally, apples are crunchy and need to be chewed thoroughly for proper digestion. Eating one with the skin can remove food particles that are wedged in between them.

2. Cheese

Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that can be found in cheese help strengthen enamel, keeping your teeth pearly white. Similarly to malic acid, the lactic acid found in cheese breaks down stains on the surface of the enamel. Additional proteins also attach to your teeth, protecting them from overly acidic foods that cause decay and unnecessary trips to the dentist. 

3. Coconut & Sesame Oil 

Although using oil while cooking isn’t enough to whiten teeth, gargling with it can be effective. This practice, also known as oil pulling, involves swishing the oil in your mouth for up to 20 minutes and rinsing it out with water.

While sesame oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and calcium, coconut oil has antimicrobial properties. These characteristics are known to reduce cavities as well as dilute plaque and stain-causing particles from the teeth.

If you’re ready to visit the dentist for teeth whitening, contact Valley Family Dentistry in Mayfield, NY. With over 28 years of experience, we offer comprehensive dental services, including dental implants and root canals. We also provide preventative treatments designed to keep your teeth healthy, such as regular cleanings and exams. Visit our website for more information about our services, or call (518) 661-6405 to make an appointment with one of our dentists today.