(CBS) - Many people go to great lengths for a brighter smile by having procedures and using over the counter products. But new developments in cosmetic dentistry have made it even simpler to whiten your teeth.
20-year-old Keila Crounse attributes her slightly yellow smile to her coffee drinking habit. So for the first time, she's getting a teeth whitening treatment at her dentist's office. These treatments are very effective, but Dr. Michael Kosdon says there are other also ways to get a white, bright smile without chemicals.
Dr. Kosdon says certain foods can act like nature's toothbrush.
"Strawberries have acids in there that actually naturally whiten your teeth and foods like cauliflower also use almost sort of a scrubbing action on your enamel and help remove the plaque on your teeth," Koston says.
Dr. Kosdon also suggests stocking up on oranges and pineapples because they have the same acids. They also help stimulate saliva, which washes stains right off teeth.
Yogurt and cheeses contain proteins that help prevent harmful acids from binding to teeth. Plus they're packed with vitamins and minerals that keep teeth strong.
But there are also foods and drinks you may want to avoid to keep your teeth from turning yellow.
" Tea is probably the worst thing people can drink to stain their teeth. A lot of people think coffee is, but tea really just soaks up into the enamel and stains really bad," says Koston.
Also on that list: anything red like red wine, cranberries, even marinara and hot sauces.
Kelia Crounse says she noticed a "big difference" from the treatment, but will try eating these foods to keep her bright smile shining as long as possible.
"I won't have to get my teeth whitened as often," she says.