8 easy ways to whiten teeth at home
A pearly and gleaming smile appeals to most people. But not all of us have naturally white teeth. In our quest of finding the best solution, many get confused by the many options available. We all don’t wish to spend hundreds of dollars at the dentist’s office and don’t want to use options with harsh chemicals. So, try some of these easy ways that will whiten your teeth with no side effects.
Oil pulling
Swishing a tablespoon oil in the mouth gets rid of toxins, bacteria, and debris. Traditionally, sunflower or sesame oil is used, but coconut oil is also popularly used. Oil pulling with coconut oil does not erode your enamel, so it is safe to use daily.
Brushing with baking soda
Mix a few teaspoons of baking soda mixed with some lemon juice to make a paste and scrub for 2-3 minutes with your toothbrush. Baking soda helps clear stains and normalize the mouth’s pH level. Lemon will help neutralize the harsh acidity of the soda.
Applying hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is popular for its bleaching properties and ability to kill germs. You can mix a few drops of this liquid with baking soda for the best results. This method should be practiced occasionally because hydrogen peroxide can increase tooth sensitivity in some individuals.
Rubbing apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibiotic known to have many healing properties. It contains acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics, and enzymes that kill harmful bacteria. The components of apple cider vinegar help in removing stains from your teeth and clearing plaque. Before brushing your teeth, rub this liquid on your teeth for a couple of minutes and then rinse thoroughly.
Using DIY kits
You can try your hand at using DIY teeth whitening kits to remove extrinsic as well as intrinsic stains. Before buying such a kit, know your tooth sensitivity level from your dentist. Since most DIY kits contain bleaching agents, choose one based on your teeth strength. Results of same product may vary since whitening depends on factors like genetics, oral hygiene, and foods consumed.
Whitening with fruits
Fruits like strawberries or pineapple have been made popularly used for teeth whitening by celebs. Some even mix strawberry with baking soda, claiming that this fruit contains malic acid that removes stains. Papaya is another popular choice since it is full of bromelain and papain enzymes known to reduce discoloration.
Being strict with oral hygiene
You can prevent teeth stains, decay, and erosion by just brushing twice a day. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride because it can potentially reverse tooth decay. Floss between your teeth to remove plaque and practice regular flossing to maintain teeth health.
Limiting certain foods
As you age, your teeth will naturally turn yellow, but limiting foods like coffee, red wine, dark berries, and soda can significantly reduce discoloration. Cut back on your sugar intake because excessive sugary foods promote the growth of bacteria that causes plaque.