Tooth Whitening
Overtime, our teeth may gradually start to yellow. It’s natural and some yellowing is to be expected, especially as we age as the enamel begins to wear away.
Discoloration can also be a sign of someone who is a coffee drinker or a smoker. Yellowing can also demonstrate a lack of dental hygiene and could be a genetic issue.
There are a number of home remedies that can help take away the yellow and help with tooth whitening, without harsh chemicals or expensive treatments.
Home Remedies for Tooth Whitening
Whitening teeth should not be done on a daily basis as this can also remove enamel and could possibly cause sensitivity and cavities.
If you really want your teeth white, stay away from dark beverages: red wine, coffee, tea, grape juice, anything that would stain a white shirt – these will stain your teeth. The same goes for smoking.
Raw Lemon Juice?
While lemons are often touted as a great tooth whitening home remedy, and while lemons can temporarily make your teeth look whiter, lemons are very acidic and will almost immediately cause damage and create more problems down the road. No matter how much you want a quick whitening fix, avoid leaving raw lemon juice on your teeth.
Crushed Vitamin C?
Just as using raw lemon juice, there are also claims that brushing with crushed vitamin C tablets will whiten teeth. While vitamin C will help keep you healthy, the acid in vitamin C, when applied directly to your teeth, will strip them of the enamel.
Baking Soda?
Baking soda is naturally abrasive and although baking soda will not bleach teeth, it can help remove plaque which can make your teeth look a little whiter.
Baking soda can be mixed with water in a bowl to form a paste. A small amount of baking soda can be added to your toothpaste.
Prolonged use of just brushing with baking soda can damage enamel. It is recommended to only use this method a few times a week.
Crunch Your Way to Whiter Teeth
One thing for whitening teeth naturally is to consume crunchy fruit and raw vegetables to cleanse away tartar and plaque while polishing at the same time.
In addition to helping with your dental health, the vitamins, minerals and fiber will help cleanse your insides as well.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Regular 3 percent hydrogen peroxide applied to your teeth or used as a mouthwash is a safe tooth whitening home remedy. Use a 2 to 1 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water and swish around your mouth for a few minutes (don’t swallow).
You can also mix together a 2 to 1 mix of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to make a paste and brush your teeth to brighten your smile.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal can also be used to help whiten teeth. Apply it to your toothbrush and gently brush your teeth. It can also be added to your existing toothpaste or add a small amount to water and use as a mouthwash.
