Everyone experiences teeth stains and yellowing, and teeth whitening can help. Regardless of the cause (injuries, genetics or discoloration from food and drinks), the truth is that staining occurs with time. Yellowing also happens as part of the aging process, even if you have a perfect oral hygiene routine.
Although teeth whitening procedures can reverse yellowing and remove some of the stains, you need to know that many teeth whitening methods can be harmful to your teeth and mouth. With the increasing awareness about the meals we consume and supplements we use, it is necessary to follow an all-natural path to oral health, including teeth whitening.
The advantage of some all-natural methods over traditional whitening treatments is the lack of chemicals that may upset the oral microbiome and possibly harm the gums. This article focuses on some of the all-natural teeth whitening methods that you can use.
Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener, and that is why it is a common ingredient in many toothpastes. The abrasive properties help to clean surface stains off the teeth. Also, baking soda increases the alkalinity of your mouth, which inhibits the growth of bacteria. The effects of baking soda are not magical, but you should notice some changes in your teeth’s appearance with time.
Oil pulling is an old Indian folk solution for bettering oral hygiene and eliminating toxins from the body. The procedure entails swishing oil in your mouth to clean the bacteria that causes plaque and teeth yellowing. Indians usually use sunflower or sesame oil, but you can use any oil. Many people prefer coconut oil because of its pleasant taste and additional health benefits (antibacterial and anti-inflammatory).
Hydrogen peroxide is naturally used as a bleaching agent, but its antibacterial properties have made it a preferred substance for disinfecting wounds. Many over-the-counter whitening agents contain hydrogen peroxide but at a higher concentration. Hydrogen peroxide is usually used as a mouthwash before brushing.
Before using hydrogen peroxide, ensure you dilute properly. Another way to use it is to mix it with baking soda for use as a toothpaste. Be careful of overuse, as that could erode your tooth enamel.
Humans have used apple cider vinegar over the years as a disinfecting and cleaning agent. It contains acetic acid, an antibacterial agent that makes it practical for cleaning the mouth and teeth whitening. You can use apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash after diluting with water. Just swish in your mouth for a few minutes and rinse your mouth afterward with clean water.
Although they cannot replace brushing and flossing, crunchy fruits and vegetables can rub against plaque while chewing. Strawberries and pineapples are two fruits that many have claimed to whiten the teeth.
Although tooth yellowing or discoloration is sometimes caused by aging, it is mostly caused by plaque accumulation. Regularly brushing and flossing of your teeth can help maintain your teeth whiteness by reducing the number of bacteria.
You can reduce tooth stains by taking measures such as limiting the consumption of sugary substances and tooth-staining substances like tobacco or red wine. The best choice is always to prevent teeth yellowing before it happens.
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