You want your smile to look bright and fresh. You have a number of options, from over-the-counter strips and gels to in-office tooth whitening treatments. End of story, right? No.

Even if you whiten your teeth, you still have to care for them afterward. Along with conventional brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your Century City cosmetic dentist, you can take steps to help keep your teeth healthy and looking whiter naturally.

Eat Your Fruits and Veggies

Vegetables aren’t just good for your physical health. They’re good for your dental health as well. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and apples, act like a natural polish by removing stains on your teeth. The fact that they do it without harming the enamel is a genuine plus.

Additionally, chewing encourages saliva. Saliva contains proteins and minerals that protect your teeth from the bacteria in your mouth that causes cavities and gum disease. Plus saliva minimizes bad breath as well.

Enjoy Calcium-Rich Foods

Do you ever wonder why people eat fruit and cheese for dessert? As your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist can tell you, they’re a natural combination and a great way to end a meal.

We already know that hard fruits like apples polish your teeth. Well, cheese brings its own dental benefits. It counteracts the natural acids in your mouth that lead to dental erosion. Additionally, the calcium helps to build stronger enamel.

Enamel is the outer layer of your tooth. It protects the dentin. The dentin is one of four components of your teeth. It gives your tooth its structure and color.

While cheese is a great way to fight dental erosion and keep your teeth looking good, there are other calcium-rich foods. Almonds, sardines, milk, and yogurt all provide your body with the calcium it needs for healthy bones and teeth.

Next time you want a fattening, sugar-filled treat for dessert, try eating cheese and apples instead. It’ll keep your smile shiny and bright and your enamel strong.

Drink Lots of Water

As we’ve already mentioned, saliva is an important part of good oral health. A dry mouth puts you at risk of bad breath, tooth decay, periodontal disease, and diseases such as thrush. It also can make it difficult to wear dentures.

Drinking water not only helps your mouth remain moist, it’s beneficial to your general health and aids in the manufacture of saliva. Additionally, 70 percent or more of the water supply throughout the country offers fluoridated water. Dental experts like your Century City cosmetic dentist suggest that fluoride helps prevent tooth decay.

So next time you’re thirsty, instead of drinking a soda or flavored water, pour yourself a glass from the tap. And keep your teeth naturally healthy and white by including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods in your diet.