A good day starts with a naturally bright white smile. You don’t have to spend a fortune on expensive dental whitening products that may not work, don’t last, or worse yet could damage your teeth’s enamel and make them more prone to staining. Not when there are natural options abound, most of which have little to no downsides, and all of which are probably lying around your house right now.
Here are several natural methods that some people (yours truly) use to help whiten teeth. Keep in mind that the effectiveness of these methods can vary, and it’s essential to use them cautiously to avoid potential damage to tooth enamel. Like, don’t go suck on a lemon for 19 hours straight.
Here are some natural ways to potentially whiten teeth:
Baking Soda
Good ole’ baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, as it’s also known. This versatile household product can be used for baking cookies, for cleaning sinks to even whitening your teeth! Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help remove surface stains from teeth. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste and gently brush your teeth with it, but use this sparingly to avoid enamel damage.
Tooth Powders
Tooth powders are a dental care method that dates back centuries. Historically, tooth powders were composed of various abrasive materials such as crushed shells, chalk, or even ground bones, which were combined with herbs, spices, and natural flavorings. Thankfully, we have evolved. Uncle Harry’s tooth powder is a blend of edible ingredients such as calcium carbonate, sea salt, mustard seed, and essential oils of peppermint, eucalyptus, clove, wintergreen, and oregano to keep your mouth fresh and optimally pH-balanced all day long. I love this brand, and have had great success with teeth whitening.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in teeth whitening products. You can dilute hydrogen peroxide with water (e.g., 1:1 ratio) and use it as a mouthwash. Be cautious not to swallow it, and use it sparingly.
Activated Charcoal
Some people use activated charcoal in powder or capsule form to brush their teeth. It’s believed to help absorb stains. Be cautious with its abrasive nature and potential for enamel wear.
Strawberries and Pineapple
Some fruits contain enzymes and acids that can naturally whiten teeth. For example, pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that can help remove surface stains. Strawberries, though slightly acidic, contain malic acid, which can act as a gentle exfoliant to polish your teeth.
Fruit Peels
Rubbing the inside of banana peels or orange peels on your teeth is a natural method some people use. These fruits contain natural compounds that might help whiten teeth. Rinse your mouth afterward.
Strawberries and Baking Soda
Mash strawberries and mix with baking soda to create a paste. Gently brush your teeth with the mixture, and rinse thoroughly. You may be tempted, but don’t swallow it.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that has gained popularity as a natural method for promoting oral health. It involves swishing a tablespoon of edible oil, such as coconut or sesame oil, in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes. Proponents of oil pulling claim that it can help remove toxins and impurities from the mouth, including plaque and surface stains, which may contribute to a brighter smile. As the oil is swished around the mouth, it adheres to impurities and is believed to “pull” them away. Afterward, the oil is spit out, and the mouth is rinsed with water before regular brushing.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Some people use apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash (diluted with water) to help remove stains. However, be cautious, as it is acidic and can weaken tooth enamel if used excessively. You can also follow with regular water to balance out the alkalinity of the mouth.
Eating Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy foods like apples, carrots, and celery can help remove surface stains as they scrub the teeth naturally when chewed. Crunchy fruits and vegetables also help with proper growth and development of the mouth if you are a child.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
I think it goes without saying, but if you’ve been around the sun once or twice and haven’t seen a dentist it’s probably time. The best way to have a white smile is by regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental check-ups and cleanings, are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing stains.
Final Notes
While these natural methods may help remove surface stains, they might not provide the same level of whitening as professional dental treatments or over-the-counter whitening products. If you’re looking for more significant whitening, it’s best to consult with a dentist or use dentist-recommended whitening products. The ability of these natural methods to whiten your teeth largely depends on the current condition of your teeth. Check with a dentist if you are unsure whether a particular product is safe for you. Additionally, excessive or improper use of these natural methods can harm tooth enamel, so use them cautiously and consult with a dentist if you have concerns about teeth whitening.
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