Thanks to the vitamin C and astringents that abound in strawberries, you can utilize them as a tool to help keep your teeth white between professional dental cleanings and whitening treatments. The vitamin C found in strawberries helps to clear plaque away, while the astringents effectively remove surface stains. Here are a few tasty strawberry recipes you can put to use at home:
Strawberry Almond Shake
This morning shake is healthier than the traditional version and will help keep you filled up until lunch time. Here is what you are going to need to make enough for two servings:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ¼ cup almonds
- 2 medjool dates
- ½ tsp salt
Place the berries and milk in your blender, then mix the ingredients on a high setting until thoroughly combined and smooth. Add the rest of the ingredients and pulse the mixture until it becomes creamy and thick. Pour the shake mixture into glasses and enjoy right away, or throw it in the freezer to create a frozen treat for later.
Berry Ice Pops
These little ice pops will help the entire family cool off when it's warm outside, and they can be added to a glass of water for a pop of flavor. You'll need the following items to make a dozen berry ice pops:
- 1 ice cube tray
- 12 toothpicks
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup strawberries
- ½ cup raspberries
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Pop everything into your blender and mix on high until there are no noticeable berry chunks left. Then pour the mixture into the ice cube tray and place a toothpick in each cube so they stand up out of the mixture. Freeze the ice cube tray for a few hours, and you'll be left with fresh ice pops both the kids and adults can enjoy.
Strawberry Mint Toothpaste
Why not make your own teeth whitening toothpaste at home and save some money by leaving the commercial options at the store? This super-easy toothpaste is gentle enough for young children to use yet effective enough to help you maintain a bright smile between dental visits. Make a batch of strawberry mint toothpaste for your family using the following:
- A plastic container with lid
- 2 fresh strawberries
- 1 tbsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide
- 10-15 drops peppermint essential oil
Using a fork, mash the strawberries and baking soda together in your container until the ingredients turn into a paste. Then add the hydrogen peroxide and peppermint oil and stir carefully until thoroughly combined. You can simply dip your toothbrush in the mixture and use it like you would commercial toothpaste. This paste will stay fresh in the fridge for about a week between uses.
For more at-home tooth whitening advice, speak with a local dentist.
