Looking to whiten your smile? Why not do it yourself! Here are five of the best teeth whitening methods you can try at home.
There are generally two ways to stain teeth: intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic stains are caused by tooth damage due to trauma, gum disease, tooth rot, or using antibiotics as a child. This causes the inside of the tooth to darken to a yellow or brown tint.
Extrinsic stains are less serious discolorations to the outside of the tooth. These are the pesky stains most people find themselves with after a lifelong coffee habit.
If this is you, keep reading for 5 of the best teeth whitening methods.
1. Oil Pulling
Let’s face it, when you look good, you feel good. Having a great smile is a good place to start.
Oil pulling is a traditional Indian remedy for improving oral health. Oils reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in the mouth. It is also thought to remove toxins from the body.
Traditionally sesame and safflower oils were used but coconut oil has become popular for its many health benefits. Coconut oil has been proven to reduce inflammation in the body. When used daily, it significantly reduces gingivitis-causing plaque in the mouth. The lactic acid in coconut oil is thought to be the cause of this.
Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for 5 to 20 minutes for the best results.
2. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is used in many dental applications as a mild but effective antiseptic. It works to keep the total mouth clean by reducing germs and bad breath causing bacteria.
You can use a 50/50 ratio of peroxide to water as a daily mouth rinse.
The addition of baking soda works to remove surface-level stains as well as reducing bacteria. Create a runny paste with the peroxide and use after brushing.
Many kinds of toothpaste already contain baking soda for additional whitening.
3. Proper Oral Hygiene
To whiten your teeth, nothing beats a good oral health routine.
A healthy routine includes brushing and flossing twice a day. Brush the front and back of your teeth using a soft bristle brush with a small head. This ensures you can reach every tooth. Replace your brush every three months
If possible, brush or rinse your teeth within 30 minutes of consuming tooth-staining foods. Whitening toothpaste uses gentle abrasion to remove stains. Used too often, they can lead to tooth and gum sensitivity.
Schedule yearly checkups with a dental professional like this Dentist in Paramus. No two mouths are alike. Your family dentist will advise you on the do’s and don’ts of your individual oral health.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is a staple among natural food communities. It has been proven to help with lowering blood sugar and killing harmful bacteria, among other benefits.
Use apple cider vinegar as a mouth rinse before or after brushing for similar results to peroxide. It improves oral health by reducing the number of disease-causing bacteria. One teaspoon should do the trick a few times a week. If you plan to swallow for added health benefits, dilute with 3 parts water.
The acetic acid in ACV works to remove the discolored plaque built up on your teeth. You should avoid brushing for 30 to 60 minutes after using ACV. The acid sitting on your teeth can damage your enamel over time so definitely don’t overdo it.
5. Lifestyle Enhancements
One method toward whiter teeth is stopping the stains in their tracks. Coffee, tea, marinara, and turmeric are some stain-causing foods. You don’t have to give up these favorites to avoid staining your teeth. When possible, use a straw for staining beverages. Other times, brush or rinse within 30 minutes of consuming them to prevent settling of staining agents.
Fresh fruits and veggies like apples and celery promote saliva production, which decreases plaque buildup on the teeth. If the plaque never gets a chance to collect, it can’t become discolored.
Put Your Best Teeth Forward
The first part of using a home remedy is a self-diagnosis. Yellow or brown teeth can be an indicator of an underlying condition. Before you self-prescribe daily peroxide rinses, check with your dentist.
The best teeth whitening remedies will be the result of regular oral hygiene mindfulness.
Want to be healthier but don’t have the time? Read this to live your best life.
