If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you might be surprised to find out that you shouldn't be having your teeth professionally whitened. The treatments can be harmful for babies. That doesn't mean you have to deal with dull or stained teeth. Here are several effective ways to whiten your teeth naturally, using foods that you may already have at home.
Strawberries
If you drink coffee or dark sodas, your teeth may have a dingy, brown film on them. Unfortunately, that brown film can't be removed by ordinary brushing. Until you can go to the dentist for a professional cleaning, you can use a paste made from strawberries. The malic acid found in strawberries will remove those unwanted stains.
Supplies You'll Need
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Small bowl
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Toothbrush
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One strawberry
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¼ teaspoon water
- Fork
Directions
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Place your strawberry in the bowl and use your fork to mash it into a soft pulp.
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Add your water and mix well.
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Use your finger to apply the paste directly to your teeth.
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Leave the paste in place for about one minute.
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Brush your teeth using your toothbrush.
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Rinse your mouth well with clear water.
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Repeat once a week to keep your teeth white.
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Don't use this method more than once a week or you could damage the enamel on your teeth.
Reach for the Cheese
You probably already know that cheese can help strengthen your bones. However, you might not know that it can also help whiten your teeth. It does this by reducing plaque build-up and improving the natural re-mineralization of your teeth.
Try snacking on a small piece of cheese before each meal. You'll be helping your teeth stay white and increasing your calcium intake, which is good for you and your baby.
Eat More Crunchy Vegetables
Crunchy vegetables like celery and carrots are a great way to whiten your teeth. First, they naturally remove plaque and polish your teeth while you chew. Second, they increase the amount of saliva that your mouth produces. One reason that saliva is so important is that it washes harmful bacteria from your mouth. It is also a natural detergent. So, the more saliva you have in your mouth, the brighter your teeth will be.
You want your teeth to be as white as they can be. Adding natural foods to your diet will help keep your teeth white while you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Be sure to continue seeing your dentist for routine exams and cleanings while you're pregnant.
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