Whiten teeth: 'Always' drink a 'natural cleaner' after your meals for tooth whitening

Dr Hanna Kinsella advised Express.co.uk readers to drink after eating to keep their teeth looking white.

The dentist founded her own Kiln Lane Dental Clinic and toothcare brand Icy Bear Dental. She is an expert in general and cosmetic dentistry, helping patients achieve white and healthy smiles.

Dr Hanna said: “A benefit across so many areas of life, drinking water is essential for wellbeing and also our oral health.

“It’s a natural cleaner in so many senses and can also help remove bacteria from the teeth.

“Always have at least a glass of water after eating meals.”

While drinking water after meals could help keep your teeth white and bright, some food and drink can stain your teeth.

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Which foods stain the teeth and might be wise to avoid if hoping to whiten your smile?

Foods that stain your teeth

  • Red wine
  • Cola
  • Tea and coffee
  • Dark coloured fruit juices
  • Beetroot
  • Berries
  • Tomato sauces or cooked tomatoes
  • Curries
  • Soy sauce

There are some ways to naturally whiten teeth at home, one of which Dr. Hanna previously detailed to Express.co.uk. 

She explained strawberries, in particular, are good for naturally whitening the teeth.

“Strawberries contain malic acid which is actually a natural tooth whitener,” Dr. Hanna told Express.co.uk.

“Obviously don’t go too hard on the strawberries, and don’t rub them on the teeth or keep them against the enamel for too long, but a healthy amount of them can help with whitening.”

How else can one whiten teeth at home?

How to whiten teeth at home

Brush teeth with baking soda

Baking soda can help to gently scrub off stains from the teeth.

It can also help to prevent bacteria from growing in the mouth.

Use toothpaste with baking soda and peroxide

A commercial toothpaste containing baking soda and peroxide was found in a study to produce 62 percent whiter teeth in six weeks.

Do oil pulling

Oil pulling, or swishing your mouth with bacteria, has been practised to remove stains from teeth.

It is thought to help remove bacteria.

source: express.co.uk