We all know to brush our teeth before bed (don't we?), and we probably know that there are a few things to avoid if we want pearly whites – even if it doesn't mean we reduce our coffee intake. But did you know there's a small pill that could protect them further? Say hello to aspirin. Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have now found that the pain relief medication can 'significantly increase' the rebuilding of minerals which restores strength to our gnashers - reversing the effects of tooth decay and lessening the need for fillings. Strawberries Normally a menace on crystal white tennis kits at Wimbledon, it turns out that strawberries can actually whiten our teeth (even if they'll cause more stains on that shirt of yours, Mr Federer). The fruit contains malic acid which has been proven to prevent and remove stains - on our teeth. Just crush them up and add to baking soda to form a paste and hey presto - strawberry toothpaste. Sunflower oil An ancient medicinal technique that originated in India, swishing oil around in the mouth (sunflower or sesame) for twenty minutes can remove stains from your teeth and make them nice and shiny again. The oil attracts and removes bacteria in the mouth and dissolves plaque and tartar on your teeth. Chewing gum Chewing gum - the sugar free kind obviously - stimulates the production of saliva, which is nature's way of helping you to wash away all the leftover food that gets stuck in the crevices of your pearly whites. Most gum also contains xylitol – a natural sweetener – which helps to neutralise acidity and stop bacteria from sticking to the surface of your teeth. Plus it gives you minty fresh breath just to complete the hat-trick Basil The herb can be incredibly useful for treating teeth disorders. It's a good remedy for treating bleeding gums as its antibacterial properties can reduce the effect of harmful bacteria in your mouth. It also helps safeguard against other dental problems like toothaches and pus or pain in the gums. For use, dry the leaves in the sun, before crushing into a powder and stirring in with sunflower oil. Green tea A study this year of 940 Japanese men aged 49 to 59, found that those who consumed more green tea were likely to have healthier gums and teeth as a result. The key to this dental success is in the antioxidant catechin that can be found in the relaxing brew. Catechin is an anti-inflmmatory that acts against periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Dark chocolate At over 75 per cent dark chocolate can contain a myriad of health benefits, not least keep our oral health in check. You see, dark chocolate contains the compound tannin which relieves inflammation of gums and tooth erosion, decreases acid production in our mouth, and by way of all of this, reduces the risk of plaque build up and tooth decay. It is also high in polyphenols which are able to neutralize microorganisms that cause bad breath. Quite the super-food indeed. Liver Liver is one of the most nutrient dense foods you can eat so unsurprisingly it is rich in both Vitamin A and D which are both important tools in the battle against tooth decay and poor oral hygiene. Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant that helps prevent gum disease while Vitamin D increases the body’s ability to calcify and mineralize the teeth and bones. And if foie gras isn't exactly your entree of choice, try cod liver oil capsules instead. Source
