Want to know how you can naturally whiten your teeth at home? Image by Adobe Stock.
There are multiple factors leading to stained teeth. Certain foods and beverages can stain the enamel on your teeth and buildup of plaque can also make your teeth yellow. However, discolouration of the teeth is treatable and with many teeth whitening products on the market, there are so many options to choose from. Whether it be a trip to the dentist for a professional job or an at-home teeth whitening kit, but the issue with these kits is that many of them contain bleaching agents and that concerns some people. So, we have put together a list of natural ways you can whiten your teeth from the comfort of your own home and without breaking the bank.
Brush with Baking Soda
Baking soda is actually a popular ingredient in teeth whitening toothpaste because it contains natural whitening properties. It is also a mild abrasive so over time it will help to scrub away stains on the surface of the teeth. Kind of like what an exfoliator does for the skin on your face. Additionally, baking soda creates an alkalising environment in your mouth so will prevent bacteria from breeding. This isn’t going to be an instant fix, but if you are patient, over time you will start to notice a difference.
Use apple cider vinegar
This method dates back to centuries ago. Apple cider vinegar has many health benefits and one of those is that it can help to bleach your teeth naturally with its main ingredient – Acetic acid. Acetic acid will also kill bacteria in your mouth, however, it does have the potential to erode the enamel on your teeth so it is recommended not to use it every day.
Eat fruit and vegetables
Eating crisp fruits and vegetables can help to rub plaque away from your teeth as you chew. It has also been said that fresh strawberry mixed with baking soda can help to whiten your teeth.
Limit staining food and beverages
Coffee and sugar are two of the biggest culprits that can lead to teeth staining. So limiting these foods and beverages can help as a preventative method to teeth staining. But if you’re one of those people who can’t live without your morning coffee and after-dinner dessert then just make sure you are brushing after eating and drinking.
Oil pulling
Finally, this ancient method which originated in India has been used as a teeth whitening and detoxifying remedy for centuries. Oil pulling is where you swill oil around in your mouth, any ingestible oil will do, then spitting it out. Coconut oil is a popular option as it tastes better than most oils and it also high in lauric acid, which is known to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.