What you’re eating could damage your smile, but other foods and beverages can help clean your teeth. If you experience persistent tooth stains, talk to your dentist about ways you can enhance your smile.
Certain foods and beverages can lead to surface staining. Coffee, dark sodas, red wine and blueberries all leave their mark quickly.
“While daily home care and regular professional cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, certain foods can help remove stains from your teeth,” said Dr. Marty Zase, president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. “Foods such as apples, pears, celery, carrots, cauliflower and cucumbers produce saliva which combines with the foods’ natural fibers to naturally clean teeth and remove bacteria.”
Drinking beverages from a straw helps food dyes avoid teeth altogether, and regular toothbrushing with baking soda, whitening toothpaste or a bleaching agent are also effective.
