If a smile can light up a room, then you should make sure your smile is as bright as it can be. Going to the dentist for teeth whitening treatment is a positive approach but do you know what to eat for whiter teeth? Everything we choose to eat or drink can have an impact on how white our teeth will stay. Consider these facts when thinking about what to eat for whiter teeth.

The White Smile Diet

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the White Smile Diet consists of “crunch” foods such as apples, pears, celery, carrots and cucumbers. These particular foods create saliva. Combine that with the fiber in these foods and you’ve created an effective and natural bacteria scrub to help whiten your teeth.

Yogurt, Milk and Cheese

We’ve always been told to “drink our milk” and there’s a good reason for that. Dairy products contain lactic acid which helps prevent gum disease and that in turn protects the teeth. Additionally, these foods are rich in Vitamin D and calcium which also support healthy teeth. And healthy teeth equal whiter teeth.

Water with Fluoride

In addition to knowing what to eat for whiter teeth, you should also know what to drink for whiter teeth. Water with fluoride washes away food particles left behind from eating. This simple act of “washing away” can help prevent harmful bacteria from sticking around your teeth and gums and dulling your smile.

Avoid Stains

There are also many foods and drinks you should try to avoid, especially if you are striving for whiter teeth. A general rule of thumb to follow is if it can stain a white T-shirt it can stain your teeth. This would include coffee, tea, sodas, wine and any foods with concentrated colors. This doesn’t mean cutting these foods out of your diet completely but be aware that brushing afterwards can go a long way towards helping your teeth stay white.