### Foods That May Help Whiten Teeth Naturally - **Strawberries**: Contain malic acid, which may help lighten stained teeth and increase saliva production. - **Watermelon**: Has more malic acid than strawberries and may help scrub teeth due to its fibrous texture. - **Pineapple**: Contains bromelain, an enzyme that can break down proteins in the pellicle layer, reducing stains. - **Papaya**: Contains papain, another enzyme that breaks down proteins and helps reduce stains. - **Dairy Products**: Milk, cheese, and yogurt contain lactic acid and casein, which may help lighten enamel and prevent staining. ### Foods and Drinks to Avoid - **Coffee and Tea**: Can cause staining due to tannins. - **Red Wine**: Contains chromogens and tannins that can stain teeth. - **Soda and Sports Drinks**: Often contain acids and dyes that can discolor teeth. - **Berries**: While healthy, they can stain teeth due to their strong pigments. - **Tomato Sauce**: Acidic and pigmented, it can contribute to staining. ### Other Natural Whitening Techniques - **Brushing and Flossing**: Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove stains and prevent plaque buildup. - **Baking Soda**: Mix with water to create a paste and brush for 1 minute to mechanically remove stains. - **Mustard Oil and Salt**: Rub a mixture of 1 part salt and 3 parts mustard oil on your teeth for 1 minute. - **Hydrogen Peroxide**: Swish a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in your mouth for 30 seconds. ### Tips to Prevent Staining - Use a straw for tooth-staining beverages. - Add milk to coffee and tea to minimize staining. While these natural methods may help, they are generally slower than commercial products. Consistent oral hygiene and limiting staining foods are key to maintaining whiter teeth.