Teeth Whitening

As we age, our teeth become discolored. It happens more quickly if we smoke or drink a lot of coffee. Using chemical preparations to whiten teeth is becoming more and more popular, but they can get expensive, and some of them are difficult to use effectively.

There are plenty of home remedies for teeth whitening – natural cures for discolored teeth that are safe, effective, easy to use, and much less expensive than anything you can buy from a pharmacy or drug store.

Discolored teeth can make you feel self-conscious, so having a bright, white smile is a great way of boosting your self-esteem. Here are a few simple ways you can get rid of tooth discoloration and whiten your teeth, using home remedies made from everyday foods and other items.

Home Remedies for Teeth Whitening

Not only does aging cause our teeth to become discolored but acidic foods and gum disease can also cause the enamel to wear down and show the yellow brown color we’d like to brighten.

Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda)

Baking soda, which is a mild abrasive, is one of the best-known natural cures for discolored teeth. Mix together equal amounts of baking soda water, about one tablespoon each, a little more baking soda if you want a thicker paste. Dip a soft bristled brush in the mixture and brush for about two minutes, spit then rinse with water.

If you have a favorite toothpaste you already have and like, just add a bit of baking soda to that and brush.

This can be done a couple of times per week without the worry of damaging the enamel on your teeth.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

Just like the baking soda and water paste you can use regular 3 percent hydrogen peroxide to replace the water. The hydrogen peroxide and baking soda will have an initial fizzing action when mixed together but this is ok. Once mixed, brush then leave on your teeth for about a minute (don’t swallow), then spit and rinse with water.

This should only be done once, maybe twice per week as hydrogen peroxide may cause a tooth to become sensitive. If you already have sensitive teeth, check with your dentist to see if this is a good option for you.

Oil Pulling

Although there are no studies that prove using coconut oil to swish and pull oil around in your mouth whitens your teeth, it is becoming another popular home remedy.

Simply take one tablespoon coconut oil (room temperature and soft) and pull the oil through the teeth. Try to keep this up for about 15 minutes. Do not swallow. When finished, spit in the garbage.

Strawberries

Rub a fresh strawberry on your teeth or mash one and brush with the berry-paste. This home remedy should be used once or twice a week; however, it is important to brush with regular toothpaste after to clean your teeth properly – berries should not be allowed to remain on your teeth because they are high in sugar. You can also mix the berries with baking soda for a more firm paste.

Chew Gum or Drink Water to Prevent Stain Build-Up

Chew on some sugarless gum after drinking coffee and tea. Chewing causes you to produce saliva, which helps wash away the liquids that stain teeth. Alternatively, drink some water to rinse your mouth.