These Home Remedies Can Help You Whiten Your Teeth Naturally
People pay a lot of attention to their appearance but all that effort would be a waste if they don’t pay attention to their teeth. Especially if it’s a case of yellow teeth as they can come off as very unhygienic. And the numerous products in the market for teeth whitening clearly back this statement.
So, what exactly causes yellow teeth?
Several factors can cause your teeth to look dull and yellow like certain food items that can stain the enamel. The plaque build-up on the teeth can also make them look yellow. Along with this, erosion of enamel can also make the teeth look yellow as erosion reveals the dentin underneath which is a naturally yellow bony tissue.
Here is a list of simple remedies for whitening the teeth
- Try oil pulling
It is a traditional treatment that enhances oral hygiene and eliminates toxins from the body.
People can use various oils like sunflower and sesame oil. Coconut oil can also be a good choice as it is high in lauric acid and can reduce inflammation along with killing bacteria.
Oil pulling is known to decreases bacteria in the mouth along with plaque and gingivitis. Oil pulling using sesame oil reduces the bacteria ‘Streptococcus mutans’, which causes plaque and gingivitis. For this remedy, use one tablespoon of coconut oil in the mouth and then push and pull the oil through the teeth.
- Using baking soda
Baking soda holds natural whitening properties and makes an important ingredient in toothpaste. It’s a mild abrasive that can wash away the stains on teeth. Baking soda makes an alkaline environment in the mouth, which prevents bacteria from growing. Researches show that toothpaste with baking soda has a significant whitening effect. People can mix one teaspoon of baking soda with teaspoons of water and then brush their teeth 2-3 times a week.
- Hydrogen peroxide
It is a natural bleaching agent that assists in killing the bacteria in the mouth. Hydrogen peroxide has traditionally been used to disinfect wounds for ages because of its ability to kill bacteria. Researchers have realised that toothpaste with baking soda and 1 per cent hydrogen peroxide can make the teeth significantly whiter.
A different study claimed that toothpaste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can make the teeth 62 per cent whiter within 6 weeks if used twice a day. However, there are doubts about the safety of hydrogen peroxide as diluted concentration or overuse can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
People can mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda and then brush their teeth.
- Consume fruits and vegetables
If the diet has more amount of fruits and vegetables, it proves to be great for overall health and teeth. Crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables assist in rubbing away the plaque while chewing. However, it cannot substitute brushing. Pineapples and strawberries have been known to whiten the teeth.
- Prevent tooth stains
Even though it is natural to have stained teeth as people age but people can take some easy steps to prevent it. People can choose to limit the consumption of certain items like coffee, red wine, soda and dark berries. These food items are known for staining teeth. Even if people cannot stop consuming these food items, they should limit their intake.
People can also choose to use a straw if they are consuming a particular beverage that is known to stain teeth. It is also recommended to brush the teeth after consuming any such beverages. People should also refrain from chewing tobacco, smoking cigarettes as these can cause tooth discolouration.
Refraining from eating too much sugar is also recommended as it can cause plaque and gingivitis. Brushing the teeth after consuming too much sugary content is also advisable.
- Brush and floss daily
Plaque buildup mostly leads to teeth discolouration and regular brushing and flossing can help you against plaque buildup. Brushing and flossing help the teeth to stay white along with reducing the bacteria present in the mouth.