Teeth appear white primarily due to the enamel, the hard outer layer of the teeth, which is naturally white or slightly off-white. Several factors and methods contribute to making or keeping teeth white:

What Makes Teeth White

• Enamel Health and Thickness: The enamel's thickness and quality influence how white teeth look. Thicker enamel tends to be whiter because it covers the yellowish dentin underneath.
• Removal of Surface Stains: Teeth can become stained by foods, drinks (like coffee, tea, red wine), smoking, and poor oral hygiene. Removing these surface stains helps restore whiteness.

Natural and Common Ways to Whiten Teeth

• Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda: Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that can whiten stained teeth. Brushing with a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can help remove stains and whiten teeth over about a week. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to scrub away surface stains and creates an alkaline environment that inhibits bacteria growth

• Dietary Choices:
  • Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Foods like apples, celery, carrots, and leafy greens stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleans the mouth and helps remove plaque and acid that can discolor teeth

* **Strawberries and Pineapple:** Strawberries contain malic acid, an enzyme that may help remove discoloration, while pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can break down plaque and stains. However, these effects are mild and should be used cautiously because fruit acids can damage enamel if overused

* **Dairy Products:** Cheese, milk, and yogurt contain calcium and lactic acid, which strengthen enamel and help keep teeth white

• Oil Pulling: Swishing oils like coconut oil in the mouth can reduce bacteria and plaque, potentially leading to a brighter smile over time, though the whitening effect is subtle

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and regular dental cleanings prevent plaque buildup and staining, maintaining white teeth

Professional Whitening

• Dentists use bleaching agents like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, sometimes activated by light or laser, to whiten teeth more effectively and quickly than home remedies

In summary, white teeth result from healthy enamel and the removal or prevention of stains. Natural methods like using baking soda with hydrogen peroxide, eating certain fruits and vegetables, practicing oil pulling, and maintaining good oral hygiene can help keep teeth white. For more dramatic whitening, professional dental treatments are available.