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Strawberries are a tasty fruit full of nutrients, well-known for their vitamin C and antioxidant qualities. Besides being healthy, people also use them in home beauty tricks, especially for whitening teeth. The trick of using strawberries for teeth whitening is popular on sites like Pinterest and TikTok, with many people saying it helps brighten their smiles. However, Dr. Prakash Tekwani, a Consultant Dentist in Thane, points out that this whitening effect is mostly just a temporary effect. He explains that strawberries have malic acid, which can help remove some outer stains from teeth, making them look a little whiter. Yet, the difference is very small, and it doesn’t change the natural color of your teeth.

The malic acid found in strawberries works as a gentle natural cleanser. It can help break down some of the stains on the surface that come from coffee, tea, or certain foods. Dr. Tekwani mentions, “If you have light stains from drinks, you might see a slight change after using mashed strawberries or by mixing them with baking soda.” He adds, “However, this is just a temporary cosmetic fix and not a substitute for professional teeth whitening.”

While strawberries are safe to eat, using them directly on your teeth too frequently can lead to harm. Dr. Tekwani alerts that the acid in strawberries can gradually wear down tooth enamel, which can increase sensitivity and make teeth more likely to stain in the future. This is why, if you decide to try this method, it’s important to rinse your mouth well and wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth to reduce enamel damage.