Having a bright and white smile is not only aesthetically pleasing but also gives one the confidence to showcase it. Many factors can contribute to teeth discoloration, such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, and consuming sugary foods and drinks.
However, there are many natural remedies that can effectively whiten teeth and give you a brighter smile.
1. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice of swishing oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes to improve oral health. It is said to pull out toxins and bacteria that can cause teeth stains.
Coconut oil is the best oil for oil pulling due to its anti-bacterial properties. Swish one tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes, then spit it out and rinse your mouth with water. Do this every morning on an empty stomach for a brighter smile.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener that effectively removes surface stains. It has mild abrasive properties that scrub off stains without damaging enamel. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water to make a paste.
Apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Repeat this once a week to get a brighter smile.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant that kills oral bacteria and removes stains from teeth. It contains acetic acid, which helps to dissolve tough stains on teeth.
Mix one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with two teaspoons of water and swish it in your mouth for 2-3 minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Use this remedy once a week to avoid the acidity damaging your enamel.
4. Strawberries
Strawberries contain malic acid, which aids in removing teeth stains. Mash one strawberry and mix it with half a teaspoon of baking soda. Apply the mixture to your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
This remedy should only be used once a week since overuse can potentially damage your enamel.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural remedy for teeth whitening. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that prevent bacterial growth in the mouth.
Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with water to create a paste, apply it to your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly and use this remedy once a week to see the results.
6. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is an effective teeth whitener; it removes surface stains and polishes enamel. It works by absorbing toxins and bacteria that cause teeth stains.
Dip a damp toothbrush into the activated charcoal powder and brush your teeth for two minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Use this remedy once or twice a week to avoid excessive use damage to your enamel.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that removes teeth stains. Mix one teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide with two teaspoons of water and swish the solution in your mouth for one minute. Do not swallow the solution.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and use this remedy once a week to avoid damaging your enamel.
8. Lemon and Salt
Both lemon and salt have whitening properties, but use this remedy with caution to avoid enamel damage. Mix one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of lemon juice to create a paste. Apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Use this remedy once every two weeks.
9. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and celery can clean teeth and remove surface stains. The crunchy texture of these fruits and vegetables can wipe off plaque and remove debris from the mouth.
Eat these foods raw and at the end of your meals for maximum effectiveness.
10. Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits
Healthy oral hygiene habits are essential for maintaining a bright and white smile. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and rinse your mouth regularly with water to remove debris from the mouth.
Additionally, avoid sugary foods and drinks and limit your intake of coffee and tea, which can all cause teeth discoloration.
Conclusion
It is possible to whiten teeth naturally without using harsh chemicals. The remedies listed above can effectively remove teeth stains and give you a brighter smile. However, it is essential to use them in moderation since overuse can cause enamel damage.
Additionally, maintain healthy oral hygiene habits regularly, so your teeth stay white and healthy.