5 SURPRISING FOODS THAT WHITEN YOUR TEETH

Many people turn to teeth whitening products for a brighter smile. But you may be surprised to learn that some of your favorite foods can also promote a radiant smile!

1. Dark chocolate

Best known for its dangerous deliciousness, dark chocolate contains antioxidants that support the immune system and enhance whiteness of one’s teeth. 

This sweet treat also packs theobromine, a naturally-occurring chemical compound that hardens dental enamel.

While food and liquids may soak into the surface of a soft outer tooth coat, dark chocolate has the impressive ability to help prevent staining and discoloration by strengthening enamel.

Pro tip: For the greatest whitening effect, look for food products that have the highest quantities of theobromine.

Another benefit is that tannins found in this candy stop bacteria from sticking to your teeth, thereby helping to prevent bad breath. When deciding between different types of chocolate, go ahead and select dark chocolate, since milk and other varieties do not yield the same benefits. 

2. Seeds and nuts

Seeds and nuts are naturally hard, leading one to believe that their abrasive coatings might be tough on teeth. However, they actually work to scrub plaque and stain-causing substances off your teeth's surfaces. Seeds that are rich in calcium, like sesame seeds, are especially good to strengthen dental enamel while whitening teeth.

3. Apples and pears

Nature's crunchy watery fruits are beneficial in a variety of ways. Their crispy texture fortifies gum tissue, which can lower the risk of periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Apples and pears are also high in water content, and can stimulate the production of saliva—an essential catalyst for reducing bacteria. Not to mention saliva flushes away teeth-yellowing substances.

4. Strawberries

With their bursting red color, strawberries may not seem ideal for keeping your pearly whites, well, white. But it’s little known that this fruit is abundant in malic acid, which is an enzyme that serves as an astringent and clears away stains on your teeth. 

In fact, some people combine mashed-up strawberries with baking soda to create natural teeth whitening products. By just incorporating the healthy fruit into your diet, though, you can actually help whiten your teeth. Mix these berries into salads or morning cereal, or enjoy ‘em as an afternoon snack. Be warned, not all berries have this same whitening effect!

5. Cheese

Due to often-pungent taste and aroma, cheese has been tagged as a culprit of bad breath. However, this dairy product enhances your calcium levels, an important marker for stronger, healthier looking teeth. In addition, cheese increases pH level in the mouth, i.e. lowering acidity in order to lower chances of dental erosion and discoloration.