Experiencing changes in the color of our teeth may be gradual while in others, it may be inevitable. And, as we age, our teeth tend to go darker or yellower.
With the outer enamel wearing off, it reveals more of the yellowy dentin underneath.
This is the second layer of tissue beneath the external enamel. So, if you’re in search of a method that helps whiten your teeth easily and naturally, you’re at the right place.
Health Line recommends several potent alternatives to the conventional whitening in the dentist’s office.
But, they emphasize it’s pivotal to be careful and to do it correctly.
Otherwise, you can cause even bigger damage by removing too much of the enamel and risking teeth sensitivity and cavities.
5 Natural Ways to Have Whiter Teeth
- Brush your teeth
First and foremost, it’s pivotal to regularly brush your teeth and to do it the right way. You need to brush after eating and drinking.
Still, don’t do it right after acidic foods and drinks. This may take away more enamel and increase the risk of erosion.
The ideal brushing schedule should be at least twice per day for 2 minutes per time. Brush gently and do it circularly to keep the gums healthy.
And, brush from the outside, from the inside, and on top of the teeth. Also, don’t forget the tongue.
And, use a whitening toothpaste-according to a study from 2018; it does help enjoy a brighter smile. The mild abrasives they contain help clean out stains more efficiently.
- Coconut oil pulling
This method is highly recommended by alternative medicine proponents for whiter teeth.
It’s considered helpful for the removal of bacteria and plaque and thus, increase the chance for whiter teeth.
Choose quality and premium coconut oil and swish one to two tsp of diluted coconut oil in the mouth for 10 to 30 minutes.
Then, spit it out into the toilet or the garbage can. Rinse off the cavity with water and drink water. Last, wash the teeth.
- Baking soda & hydrogen peroxide
A homemade paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide may help eliminate plaque and bacteria and lower stains. Combine a tbsp of baking soda and 2 tbsp of hydrogen peroxide.
Brush the teeth using this paste thoroughly and then rinse off the mouth. You can also use it as mouth wash or rinse off the teeth using baking soda mixed with water. According to a 2012, people who used toothpaste with these two ingredients removed tooth stains and experienced whiter teeth.
- Apple cider vinegar
When used in small amounts, apple cider vinegar may help whiten your teeth. To make a mouthwash, mix 2 tsp of it and 6 ounces of water.
Swish the cavity with the solution and then rinse it off with water. Then, brush the teeth as usually.
However, there’s only a study done with cow teeth from 2014 that showed its bleaching effect on teeth. And, it’s important to use it cautiously to prevent damage on the enamel.
- Banana, orange or lemon peels
According to anecdotal evidence, the peels of these fruits rubbed onto the teeth may help whiten them.
This is believed to be a result of the d-limonene and/or citric acid in some peels that encourages the whitening.
If you decide to try it out, gently rub it onto the teeth for around 2 minutes and then rinse off the mouth and wash the teeth.
In one study from 2010, people who brushed using toothpaste with d-limonene and a whitening formula twice per day for a month had reduced stains caused by smoking.
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