Who doesn’t want whiter teeth? It may be easy for you to go out and purchase a tooth whitening kit. However, many of these products contain chemicals that bleach your teeth, which could cause concerns such as damaging your enamel, irritation to your gums, tooth sensitivity, and more. To make things even more concerning, some of these side effects may also be permanent. If you want whiter teeth and want to avoid harsh chemicals, this article lists many natural and safe options. If there are deeper concerns regarding your teeth, research denturist Surrey BC has to offer.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
Before we dive into how you can make your teeth whiter, we must first understand the cause of it, which can be interpreted as a preventative action. Multiple factors can cause teeth to lose their shine. Certain foods can stain your enamel, the outermost layer of your teeth. Plaque buildup on your teeth can also cause them to look yellow. These types of discolouration can be treated with regular cleaning and the whitening remedies we will discuss. However, teeth can look yellow from the enamel eroding, revealing the dentin underneath. Dentin is a naturally yellow, bony tissue that lies underneath the enamel. If this is the case for you, contact a denturist in Surrey BC to speak to a professional.
How to Whiten Teeth Naturally
Practice oil pulling
Oil pulling is a traditional remedy, often associated with Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system from India. It is meant to improve oral hygiene and remove toxins from the body. The practice involves swishing the oil in your mouth to remove bacteria, which can turn into plaque and cause yellow-looking teeth. Coconut oil is a popular choice for its pleasant taste and health benefits.
To oil pull, put 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of coconut oil in your mouth, and pull the oil through your teeth. Continue this for 15-20 minutes.
Unlike other tooth whitening methods, coconut oil does not expose your teeth to chemicals that erode the enamel; thus, it is safe to do daily.
Brush with baking soda
Baking soda has natural whitening properties and is a popular ingredient in commercial toothpaste. It is a mild abrasive and can help scrub away surface stains on teeth. Furthermore, the alkaline environment prevents bacteria from growing. Though it is not a remedy that will cure your teeth overnight, you will surely see gradual improvement.
To use this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon (6 g) of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water (5 mL) and brush your teeth with the paste. You can do this a few times per week.
After noting the benefits of each whitening method, the best way to whiten your teeth comes down to personal preference, goals, and budget. These remedies work and are safe as they gently remove surface stains from your teeth. However, most dentists offer whitening treatments that are much stronger than these natural remedies – but may be more harmful. Always check with a denturist in Surrey BC to see what options there are for you.
