Getting whiter teeth is one of the most popular things people want for their smiles, and your dentist in Long Grove doesn’t blame them. Whiter teeth are often viewed as more attractive and make you appear healthier and more approachable than dull, discolored teeth. While we all know that there are tons of foods out there that can cause our teeth to be less than our ideal shade of white, we want to talk about certain foods that we can eat that can actually help brighten our teeth.
Apples
Raw apples may help remove surface stains from our teeth thanks to their crunchy consistency. Their texture helps gently scrub teeth as we chew, effectively rubbing away minor stains. Apples also contain an enzyme called malic acid which has been linked to increased saliva production, which can also aid in rinsing away stains.
Pineapple
Another fruit that can diminish the appearance of tooth staining is pineapple. Pineapple is naturally packed with bromelain — a natural anti-inflammatory and cleansing agent. This stuff is good at cleaning that a recent study by the International Journal of Dental Hygiene found that it can safely and effectively remove tooth stains.
Cheese
Cheese and other dairy products such as yogurt and milk are loaded with lactic acid, calcium, and vitamin D. This powerhouse trio fights off decay as well as strengthens tooth enamel. Tough and healthy enamel can actually help teeth have a whiter appearance, and conversely, if enamel wears away, teeth can appear dark or discolored. What’s more, is that hard cheeses can act as a gentle scrubber and rub off stains.
Broccoli
Speaking of healthy enamel, broccoli is another food that can protect enamel and help to keep teeth looking white, thanks to its iron content. In fact, research done by the European Journal of Dentistry claims that the iron in broccoli essentially blocks acid from attacking and wearing away tooth enamel. Broccoli, in its raw form, is also great for scrubbing surface stains.
Water
One of the best things you can do for your teeth and your whole body is to drink plenty of water, especially after eating. Water not only helps neutralize the acid that can attack enamel, but it also helps rinse away food particles and sugars that may be leftover from lunch. If these particles aren’t removed quickly, they can lead to decay and cavities, and, in turn, discoloration of your teeth.
While these foods can help protect your teeth from the damaging effects of bacteria and acid, and they can help whiten your teeth, they may not transform your look dramatically. If tooth stains are deep, you should talk with your dentist in Long Grove about the best way to whiten your smile. Your dental team may recommend a professional whitening treatment, or perhaps cosmetic dentistry such as veneers.
FAQs
The most effective treatment you can receive through your dentist is Zoom! laser teeth whitening treatment. While this procedure is not the cheapest fix for yellowing, it is the most effective, quickest, and long-lasting procedure. If you are looking for the best brightening solution, Zoom! is it!
What product makes your teeth the whitest? ›
The Best Teeth Whitening Kits, According to Dentists
- OpalescenceGo Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays, Set of 10. ...
- Burst Prefilled Whitening Trays, Set of 3. ...
- PhilipsZoom NiteWhite Kit, Set of 3. ...
- Dr. ...
- Colgate Optic White ComfortFit Teeth Whitening Kit. ...
- Auraglow Teeth Whitening Kit. ...
- Crest3D Whitestrips, Pack of 22.
If you're looking for long-lasting results, Bianca Velayo, DMD of Green Valley Smiles Dentistry, recommends looking for peroxide-based products if you're hoping to whiten tooth enamel. You can opt for either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as both will reverse internal and external stains on teeth, she notes.
How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth? ›
Generally at this concentration you would need to have your teeth in contact with the 3% hydrogen peroxide for about 5 hours a day for about 2-3 weeks to have meaningful tooth whitening, which is very difficult to do with a watery liquid.
Can old yellow teeth be whitened? ›
It's natural for teeth to appear darker as they age, but a bleaching product with hydrogen peroxide or urea peroxide can help turn back the clock – and a whitening toothpaste is an easy way to get a jump-start.
How to whiten teeth over 60? ›
Bleaching Trays
Compared to commercial products, whitening trays from your dentist are stronger and much safer for seniors in particular. As you age, your gums and teeth can become more sensitive. Your dentist can first evaluate your oral health to determine if you are eligible to receive teeth whitening.
How can I make my teeth super white fast? ›
Seven Ways to Naturally Whiten Teeth
- Eat Strawberries. One of the simplest ways to naturally whiten your teeth is just by eating strawberries. ...
- Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
- Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
- Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
- Apply Coconut Oil. ...
- Brush Your Tongue. ...
- Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.
If you see celebrities with perfectly white, straight, and uniform-looking teeth, they likely have veneers. Unlike teeth whitening, veneers are more permanent. There are various types of materials used, but porcelain and composite are the most common types.
How can I make my teeth 100% white? ›
The 12 Best (and Safest) Ways to Whiten Teeth
- Use whitening toothpaste+
- Switch to an electric toothbrush.
- Get a professional tooth whitening treatment.
- Get a custom whitening gel tray.
- Apply whitening strips.
- Use baking soda toothpaste.
- Try oil pulling.
- Practice good oral hygiene.
You won't be able to whiten either porcelain crowns or most commonly used dental bonding materials. And, if you're suffering from gum disease, teeth whitening treatments will be uncomfortable, as well as possibly ineffective.
Unfortunately there's no scientific evidence that turmeric can whiten your teeth. Many turmeric toothpaste includes ingredients like baking soda, hydrated silica, or calcium carbonate, which are known as natural whitening agents and might be what's actually contributing to a brighter smile.
Does apple cider vinegar whiten teeth? ›
Due to it's high acidity, ACV is not recommended for teeth whitening. If you use it, it is best to dilute it and ensure you are rinsing your teeth afterward. There are better alternatives for teeth whitening, including the use of teeth whitening strips, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda.
Does swishing hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›
A simple hydrogen peroxide mouthwash may help remove mild stains. However, a person should avoid leaving hydrogen peroxide solutions on their teeth for extended periods. For people who have darker stains, stronger whitening options are available both over the counter and from a dentist.
How to make teeth whiter in 3 minutes without hydrogen peroxide? ›
Rub banana, orange, or lemon peels:
To perform this “trick,” take a banana, orange, or lemon peel and gently rub it on your teeth. Keep rubbing it for about 2 minutes, then thoroughly wash your mouth and brush your teeth. The peels of these fruits contain citric acid, which theoretically helps in teeth whitening.
Does gargling hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›
Hydrogen peroxide is the main active ingredient in many over-the-counter and professional teeth-whitening products. Gargling with hydrogen peroxide might make your teeth look whiter for a few hours right after you do it.
Which is better, laser or zoom teeth whitening? ›
The differences between Zoom and laser teeth whitening
Zoom filters out the infrared emissions, while laser teeth whitening does not. It whitens all of the patient's teeth at the same time, while laser teeth whitening targets one tooth at a time. Quicker teeth whitening results come from Zoom treatments.
What is the fastest results for teeth whitening? ›
Professional teeth whiteners are usually administered by dentists or certified teeth whitening professionals. This teeth whitening method involves high-powered bleaching agents such as carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which can significantly lighten teeth in a single session.
Which teeth whitening option provides the fastest results? ›
Teeth Whitening Strips
Whitening strips allow the whitening gel to stay on the teeth longer than whitening toothpaste, which means you're more likely to see faster, brighter results.
What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›
Overuse or misuse of teeth-whitening products can cause sensitivity, gum irritation, and other side effects. Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.
