Foods That Brighten Tooth Enamel

Practicing the usual hygiene routines, such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, may not always be enough to whiten teeth. Teeth losing their luster over time is natural, especially as the teeth tend to come in contact with foods such as tea, coffee, and other staining foods. Over time, as the teeth begin to lose their enamel, they can become more prone to stains. There are two types of stains that any person can get:

• Extrinsic – These stains are often left upon the surface of the tooth, and are caused by external factors such as food, smoking, and drinks. These can be easily cleaned with teeth whitening procedures are done at home.
• Intrinsic – Intrinsic stains often occur when stains reach into the dentin of the teeth. These stains can happen due to early exposure to fluoride, or medication that wears down at the enamel.

Aging causes a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic stains, and because the dentin yellows naturally over time, and most of the yellow tint can be removed by professional cleaning. However, there are other life choices that a person could make to help prevent the onset of stained teeth. It all comes down to food choices.

What Foods Help Prevent Staining

Certain foods can contain nutrient properties, such as fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins that aid in dental health. Some foods that dentists recommend include:

• Apples – Apples contain malic acid, which helps the mouth produce more saliva and, by proxy, helps wash away unwanted bacteria and stains. The chewing effects that come from apples also wash away any unwanted food debris leftover in the mouth.
• Strawberries – These tasty fruits also contain malic acid, and have the extra added benefits of ellagitannins, a type of antioxidant that helps reduce bacteria and inflammation in the mouth. These fruits also contain Vitamin C, which can prevent periodontal disease.
• Pineapples – These special fruits contain bromelain, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties and cleansing properties. It’s also effective at removing stains from teeth.
• Dairy products – Cheese, milk, and yogurts have multiple types of stain-fighting components such as lactic acid, calcium, and phosphorus. These acids and minerals also protect the enamel of teeth and help strengthen it.
• Broccoli – Broccoli, as much as the kids hate it, are high in fiber. The fiber can help reduce inflammation and help polish teeth because of its rough texture.
• Raisins – Despite how sweet and sticky this food is, raisins help stimulate saliva, and help neutralize the acidic environment created by other foods within the mouth. This effect is also why so many companies combine their bran cereal with raisins.
• Water – Water is an essential drink you can have to promote both dental health and overall body health. Water hydrates the body, and promotes saliva production, rinsing out any debris and bacteria leftover from eating.

Do you wish to learn more about what foods whiten teeth? Dr. John Batlle from Southwest Family Dentistry can help answer all those questions and more. Located in Lake City, Florida, Dr. Batlle can help treat families for their dental needs and give them excellent advice on long-term dental care.