Food, drinks and plaque can all stain teeth, according to "Glamour" magazine. You can purchase an over-the-counter whitening toothpaste or kit, or see your dentist for a professional whitening treatment. To prevent tooth stains and whiten your teeth naturally, you can make a few easy adaptations to your dental routine. By focusing on good oral care and avoiding foods and drinks that stain, you'll get your teeth bright and white naturally.
Drink Through a Straw
"Glamour" magazine suggests using a straw to drink beverages that may stain your teeth. Using a straw helps you ingest your beverage without letting the liquid touch the front of your teeth, preventing stains from setting in. Your teeth will especially benefit if you use a straw with dark-colored beverages such as coffee, tea and red wine.
Chew Fruits and Vegetables
In an article in "Elle" magazine, dentist Elisa Mello suggests chewing on crunchy fruits and vegetables to scrub your teeth clean and promote white, healthy teeth. Mello especially recommends chewing strawberries, which contain malic acid, a natural stain-fighting acid. You can make a puree of strawberries and rub the pulp on your teeth to get your teeth bright and white.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Sugar-free gum that contains xylitol, a natural, plant-based sweetener, can keep your teeth clean and white when you can't brush after a meal. Carry gum with you and chew on a piece after eating. Mello claims that sugar-free gum will break down food particles left on your teeth, keeping the foods from staining your tooth enamel.
Use an Electric Toothbrush
Use an electric toothbrush to get your teeth extra clean and remove stain-causing plaque and bacteria. According to dentist Jennifer Jablow, cited in "Elle" magazine, electric toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque from your teeth, leading to a whiter smile.
Rinse When You Can't Brush
If you are out and about, rinse your mouth with plain water after eating or drinking to remove food particles and beverages that can lead to stains. "Elle" magazine suggests rinsing especially after you've had a staining beverage such as coffee or tea.
Avoid Acidic Fruits
Dentist Debra Glassman suggests avoiding acidic fruits such as lemons, limes and grapefruits, according to an article in "Elle" magazine. Chewing or sucking on citrus can wear away your tooth enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to stains.
