7 easy teeth whitening remedies to try
A smile is one of the first things most people notice when they see someone for the first time. Once people put on a smile, they feel completely dressed; this is why people try to keep their teeth from staining and look for whitening techniques. However, not everyone has the time to frequently visit the dentist and get their teeth whitened. So, one can use these remedies to make their teeth look whiter:
Brush with baking soda
While this is an important ingredient in cakes and cookies, baking soda is also a vital ingredient in toothpaste because of its natural teeth whitening properties. This basic chemical’s mild abrasive effects help scrub teeth stains and whiten the enamel. This teeth whitening remedy is backed by simple chemistry—baking soda creates an alkaline environment in the mouth, preventing the growth of bacteria and removing stains left by acidic food. This easy teeth whitening remedy can be adopted by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water and using this paste to brush one’s teeth. This should be used three times a week and not every day because it may have a corrosive effect on the enamel.
Use coconut oil
Coconut oil is one of the easiest teeth whitening remedies. There are two ways of using coconut oil to whiten teeth. The first method is called oil pulling, wherein a spoonful of coconut oil is poured into the mouth and swished around for about 10 minutes. The method helps whiten the teeth, improve oral hygiene, and remove toxins from the body. Additionally, coconut oil has antibacterial properties and can help reduce inflammation in the gums. The oil swirling in the mouth can remove plaque and the buildup of bacteria that makes up plaque. The second method is brushing teeth with a few drops of coconut oil. It helps scrub the teeth clean of germs and helps keep them white. One can also use sesame oil or olive oil for similar results.
Brush with activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is a substance that attracts impurities and exhibits excellent cleaning properties. It can absorb stains on the surface of the teeth, helping whiten them. It is one of the popular teeth whitening remedies that one can follow by brushing the teeth with activated charcoal powder. However, it can get stuck between the teeth and gums, so rinse with water multiple times after brushing. Excessive use of charcoal can wear down the enamel, so use it once a week for best results. Consider using it along with other teeth whitening remedies for a quicker outcome.
Avoid teeth-staining food
One of the most apparent ways of keeping teeth white is to prevent yellowing by avoiding certain foods. Food does more than just nourish the body; it can also stain the teeth. It is essential to avoid the buildup of food particles in the mouth and have adequate water to keep the teeth clean. Processed foods with acidic content like candies and soft drinks can also cause yellowing. Certain treatment options and beverages like tea and coffee have a similar effect. It is important to be mindful of what one eats, and one should rinse the mouth regularly to prevent discoloration of teeth.
Try hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that can be used to lighten the teeth. It is a common ingredient in many kinds of toothpaste that one can find at local pharmacies. It is one of the best teeth whitening remedies that not only removes plaque but also removes stains on the surface of the teeth. It can be used in two ways: First, mix store-bought hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) with water in a 1:1 ratio and dip the toothbrush in this solution before brushing teeth, or one can dilute it further and use it as a mouthwash. Hydrogen peroxide also kills bacteria in the mouth and exhibits antiseptic properties beneficial for the gums if they are swollen or have a gash or laceration. For best results, one can carefully combine hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to make a paste for brushing their teeth. Always dilute hydrogen peroxide as excessive quantities can cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
Eat healthier
Another simple teeth whitening remedy is to make better food choices. Add fresh and dried fruits and vegetables to the meals. Raw vegetables are excellent for oral hygiene as they are crunchy and help rub the plaque off teeth when chewed. Strawberries and pineapples also have teeth-whitening properties. Additionally, spices like cloves also help boost oral hygiene. Regardless of what one eats, it is important to remember to brush and rinse the mouth after every meal to keep stains at bay.
Use apple cider vinegar
Acetic acid is the primary ingredient in apple cider vinegar, and this chemical exhibits antibacterial properties. One can use diluted apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash to whiten their teeth. Remember to rinse with plain water several times after using ACV as the acid can erode teeth enamel. Do not use this teeth whitening remedy more than thrice a week because it may become counter-productive by potentially damaging the teeth when overused.
Sometimes an individual may lose their tooth due to an injury or disease and experience multiple complications such as rapid bone loss, changes in chewing patterns, and defective speech. In this situation, replacing the lost tooth with a dental implant is a suitable remedy. The device is surgically implanted into the jaw and helps restore one’s chewing capabilities or appearance.
