6 Simple Methods to Whiten Teeth Naturally at Home
Many individuals invest a lot of money to achieve shiny white teeth. They get expensive whitening products from stores and use them dedicatedly, hoping for the best results. But, it is vital to note that most store-bought solutions may do more harm than good. So, it is best to try simple methods to improve oral health naturally. Here are six natural ways to get whiter teeth at home and prevent the risk of complications.
Brush regularly
The first step in maintaining healthy white teeth is to brush regularly and correctly. You must brush after every major meal, especially if you have had foods and beverages that may yellow the teeth and stain them, such as tea, coffee, dark sodas, and certain juices. However, do not brush immediately after having these foods. Doing so may cause the acid to eat away more enamel and even cause erosion. The best practice is brushing twice daily for two minutes each, ensuring cracks and crevices are reached. Research shows that using an electric toothbrush can improve the chances of removing stains while brushing. So, consider investing in one if you want to achieve whiter teeth. And do not forget to use toothpaste that is non-abrasive and gentle.
Try oil pulling
This home remedy helps remove toxins from the mouth and improves oral hygiene. All you have to do is swirl some oil in the mouth to remove bacteria, which may otherwise turn to plaque and result in the yellowing of teeth. One known bacteria that may lead to plaque and gingivitis is Streptococcus mutans, and swishing certain oils may help curb its growth. While you can use various oils, coconut oil is preferred as it has a pleasant taste and is rich in lauric acid, which can eliminate bacteria and prevent or reduce inflammation. It also does not contain artificial elements that may erode the enamel in the cleaning process. To practice this remedy, put a tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth. Then push and pull the oil through your teeth for about 15 to 20 minutes. Spit it out in a trash can and repeat the process daily. Many claim that they notice whiter teeth after two weeks of oil pulling. Other oils suitable for the method are sunflower and sesame oil.
Choose the right vegetables
Water-rich veggies have several nutritional benefits that complement the immune system and improve oral health. The water cleanses the teeth and gums of plaque and bacteria, which is the primary cause of yellowing. Munching on leafy greens like spinach or raw and crunchy beans at the end of meals also helps as it increases saliva production. Further, their crunchy natural structure helps remove food particles lodged in the corners. Adding them to meals can help flush away harmful acids in the mouth. You must also consider vegetables rich in vitamin C as they too reduce plaque development that may cause yellow teeth. Furthermore, vegetables and legumes high in fiber are said to neutralize the acid in the mouth and protect the enamel from damage.
Choose the right fruits
Many fruits are known to have positive effects on oral health. For example, pineapple gel made with bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, helps eliminate stains from the teeth. Another fruit known to help whiten teeth are strawberries. Mixing these fruits with baking soda is said to counter the yellowing effects on teeth more effectively. To try it, make a paste by smashing a fresh strawberry and combining it with baking soda. Then brush the paste on the teeth. The malic acid in strawberries helps reverse discoloration, while the baking soda eliminates stains. Papaya is another fruit to consider as it has papain and bromelain. Both enzymes have whitening effects on the teeth. Several tooth bleaching gels use the enzymes from papayas because of their clinical ability to whiten teeth. Rubbing banana, lemon, or orange peels may also contribute to whiter teeth considering their citric acid content.
Use an apple cider vinegar mouthwash
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another ingredient that can help whiten teeth. It has several health benefits and is easily available in stores. To try this remedy, mix two teaspoons of ACV with six ounces of water. Once the mixture is ready, swirl it in your mouth for 30 seconds. Then rinse with water and brush your teeth thoroughly. Remember to use this remedy for only short amounts of time. Excessive use of ACV may damage the surface and hardness of the teeth and lead to other issues.
Brush with turmeric
For thousands of years, turmeric has been used globally as a herbal and healing remedy. The spice is known to help manage minor health issues and even has implementations in dental care. In fact, many prefer using natural turmeric over other tooth treatment methods. The herb can help whiten teeth, reduce the risk of gum disease, and curb inflammation and pain in the gums. To use turmeric as an oral remedy, pour pure turmeric powder into a small bowl. Then wet the bristles of a toothbrush and dip them into the powder. Once the toothbrush absorbs some powder, brush your teeth so that the powder spreads evenly on the surface. Let the powder sit for at least five minutes before rinsing it away. Once done, brush again with regular toothpaste, toothpowder, or another dental product. Doing so helps remove leftover turmeric marks on the teeth. Use this method not more than once a day for positive results.
These are a few simple ways to naturally whiten your teeth at home. For the best results, follow the methods thoroughly and correctly. It requires some amount of patience, but you may experience the benefits with time.
