If you're on a mission to whiten your teeth and flash a brighter smile, you might be tempted to splash out on pricey toothpastes or bleaching strips. But according to one dental guru, the secret weapon could already be lurking in your fridge – and it's as simple as a healthy snack.
Dr Jyothi Chintamani, a dental assistant at Dental Arch, has flagged up that munching on raw, crunchy veggies like carrots and celery can act as natural scrubbers, helping to shift surface stains on your teeth.
She explained: "People assume they need expensive whitening kits to make a difference, but the truth is far more reassuring. Everyday foods can support oral health in really practical ways.
"Raw carrots and celery behave a bit like tiny natural cleaning pads. Every chew helps to sweep away soft plaque and surface stains before they settle.
"A 75p bag of celery can last several days and genuinely support a brighter smile when you make it part of your routine."
Swapping a sugary nibble for a handful of carrot sticks not only cuts down on sugar exposure but also cleans your teeth, promising a brighter smile and healthier gnashers.
This clever veggie trick works by stimulating saliva production, which is one of the body's top defences. It washes away food remnants, neutralises acids and safeguards enamel.
Dr Chintamani added: "Carrots and celery are perfectbecause they are crisp, fibrous, and hold their shape as you chew.
"Apples can help too, although their acidity means rinsing with water afterwards is a good idea. The key is choosing something firm enough to get teeth working."
Nevertheless, she cautions that this shouldn't completely substitute brushing or professional care.
"Think of this as a small daily boost. It will not replace your toothbrush, but it absolutely helps maintain a cleaner, fresher-looking tooth surface between brushes."
