Everyone experiences teeth stains and yellowing, and teeth whitening can help. Regardless of the cause (injuries, genetics or discoloration from food and drinks), the truth is that staining occurs with time. Yellowing also happens as part of the aging process, even if you have a perfect oral hygiene routine.
Although teeth whitening procedures can reverse yellowing and remove some of the stains, you need to know that many teeth whitening methods can be harmful to your teeth and mouth. With the increasing awareness about the meals we consume and supplements we use, it is necessary to follow an all-natural path to oral health, including teeth whitening.
The advantage of some all-natural methods over traditional whitening treatments is the lack of chemicals that may upset the oral microbiome and possibly harm the gums. This article focuses on some of the all-natural teeth whitening methods that you can use.
Natural teeth whitening methods
Brushing with baking soda
Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener, and that is why it is a common ingredient in many toothpastes. The abrasive properties help to clean surface stains off the teeth. Also, baking soda increases the alkalinity of your mouth, which inhibits the growth of bacteria. The effects of baking soda are not magical, but you should notice some changes in your teeth’s appearance with time.
Oil pulling
Oil pulling is an old Indian folk solution for bettering oral hygiene and eliminating toxins from the body. The procedure entails swishing oil in your mouth to clean the bacteria that causes plaque and teeth yellowing. Indians usually use sunflower or sesame oil, but you can use any oil. Many people prefer coconut oil because of its pleasant taste and additional health benefits (antibacterial and anti-inflammatory).
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is naturally used as a bleaching agent, but its antibacterial properties have made it a preferred substance for disinfecting wounds. Many over-the-counter whitening agents contain hydrogen peroxide but at a higher concentration. Hydrogen peroxide is usually used as a mouthwash before brushing.
Before using hydrogen peroxide, ensure you dilute properly. Another way to use it is to mix it with baking soda for use as a toothpaste. Be careful of overuse, as that could erode your tooth enamel.
Apple cider vinegar
Humans have used apple cider vinegar over the years as a disinfecting and cleaning agent. It contains acetic acid, an antibacterial agent that makes it practical for cleaning the mouth and teeth whitening. You can use apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash after diluting with water. Just swish in your mouth for a few minutes and rinse your mouth afterward with clean water.
Fruits and vegetables
Although they cannot replace brushing and flossing, crunchy fruits and vegetables can rub against plaque while chewing. Strawberries and pineapples are two fruits that many have claimed to whiten the teeth.
Do not forget brushing and flossing
Although tooth yellowing or discoloration is sometimes caused by aging, it is mostly caused by plaque accumulation. Regularly brushing and flossing of your teeth can help maintain your teeth whiteness by reducing the number of bacteria.
In conclusion
You can reduce tooth stains by taking measures such as limiting the consumption of sugary substances and tooth-staining substances like tobacco or red wine. The best choice is always to prevent teeth yellowing before it happens.
Request an appointment here: https://www.arcdentistry.com or call Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics at (516) 301-9038 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Laser teeth whitening, also known as laser teeth bleaching, is a popular option for dentist-supervised teeth whitening. Patients can whiten their teeth using at-home trays or by choosing to undergo an in-office whitening procedure. In-office whitening procedures sometimes use dental lasers, whitening teeth faster and more efficiently.Teeth whitening is popular because it enhances the way…
Learn why in-office teeth whitening procedures are preferred over at-home treatment and over-the-counter options. Since a dentist supervises the procedure, a stronger bleaching solution can be used than what is found in at-home kits. This allows for longer-lasting results, which can persist for as long as two years.Considering choosing a dental professional for in-office teeth…
Making a teeth whitening choice requires one to be very strategic, as there are many different types of options to decide between. The fact that some over the counter whitening products are not as safe as one may think, makes it essential for anyone who wants whiter teeth to make an educated decision. Ready to…
Tooth whitening helps build your everyday confidence so that you can relate with others and it provides you with a bright smile. However, discoloration of teeth can be caused by stains on your enamel or by changes that may occur inside of your teeth. Drinking coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and poor dental hygiene can cause…