Everyone wants a dazzling smile, and teeth whitening treatments have become extremely popular for achieving one. While there are several options available, many of them can be quite expensive and may even cause damage to your teeth and gums.
However, there is a natural solution that is becoming increasingly popular – coconut oil.
What is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is a natural oil that is obtained from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts. It is high in saturated fats, lauric acid, and vitamin E, making it a popular choice for cooking, skin care, and now, teeth whitening.
Why Use Coconut Oil for Teeth Whitening?
Coconut oil has been found to have several benefits for teeth whitening:.
1. It Contains Lauric Acid
Lauric acid is a medium-chain fatty acid that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut oil contains high concentrations of lauric acid, which can help control the bacteria in your mouth that cause plaque and bad breath.
2. It Can Remove Stains
The oil pulling technique involves swishing coconut oil around your mouth for 15-20 minutes. This helps the oil to penetrate deep into the crevices of your teeth, which can dissolve and remove stains from the tooth surface.
3. It Promotes Healthy Gums
Oil pulling with coconut oil can not only improve your teeth, but it can also promote healthy gums. The oil’s antibacterial properties can reduce the risk of gum disease and control gingivitis-causing bacteria.
4. It is Safe and Cost-Effective
Unlike traditional teeth whitening treatments, coconut oil is safe and gentle on your teeth. It is also a cost-effective option, as coconut oil is readily available and inexpensive compared to other teeth whitening options.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Teeth Whitening
There are a few simple steps to follow when using coconut oil for teeth whitening:.
1. Choose a High-Quality Coconut Oil
Choose a high-quality, organic, and unrefined coconut oil. This ensures that the oil is free from harmful chemicals and additives.
2. Oil Pulling
Take a tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Make sure you move the oil around all areas of your mouth.
Spit the oil in the trash can (not in the sink as it can solidify and cause blockages), then rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth as usual.
3. Brushing with Coconut Oil
You can also mix coconut oil with a pinch of baking soda and brush your teeth for two minutes. Ensure that you use gentle circular motions and spend more time brushing the front-facing sides of your teeth.
4. Coconut Oil Mouthwash
Melt a tablespoon of coconut oil and let it cool. Add a few drops of peppermint oil for fresh breath. Swish the oil in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Rinse your mouth with warm water and you are done!.
Conclusion
Coconut oil is a natural, safe, and cost-effective option for teeth whitening and promoting oral health. It contains lauric acid, which can control harmful bacteria, dissolve stains, and promote healthy gums.
So, add coconut oil to your oral hygiene routine and achieve a healthy, dazzling smile.