Tooth whitening products are available at your dentist and your local grocery store or pharmacy.
Bridgwater Family Dentistry can help you choose the best tooth-whitening products and we can help you learn how to whiten them naturally at home.
1. Oil Pulling
You can keep your teeth and encourage natural whitening with oil pulling.
Most people who practice this traditional remedy use coconut oil, as it provides several health benefits that include killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Coconut oil also tastes good, so the experience is pleasant.
The antibacterial quality of coconut oil can help reduce streptococcus mutans in the mouth.
Studies found that oil pulling with coconut oil provides the same benefits as an antimicrobial mouthwash. Because of these benefits, coconut oil pulling can reduce plaque and gingivitis. Just remember to dispose of your pulled oil in a trash can rather than the sink.
2. Baking Soda
Another DIY whitening product is baking soda.
The household product has natural whitening properties, and it’s a gentle abrasive. These qualities help remove stains, and the alkaline qualities prevent bacteria build-up.
While baking soda won’t whiten your teeth overnight, it will help improve your teeth’s appearance. Rather than brushing with baking soda, use toothpaste with baking soda in it. Baking-soda toothpaste can reduce gum inflammation and fight plaque, making your teeth look healthy.
If you want to try brushing with baking soda, mix baking soda and water in a one-to-two ratio to create an effective paste. Use it several times each week, along with your regular cavity-fighting toothpaste.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide bleaches the teeth and fights bacteria.
The best way to whiten your teeth with hydrogen peroxide is with toothpaste containing the bleaching substance. Studies show you should see a subtle change in the color of your teeth after using toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide for about 12 weeks.
A hydrogen-peroxide mouthwash can help with whitening. Purchase hydrogen peroxide in a 1.5% or 3% solution to reduce the chances of gum irritation or tooth sensitivity from developing.
You can mix hydrogen peroxide and baking soda in a two-to-one ratio for an effective toothpaste, but only use it a few days weekly.
4. Watch Your Diet
Another good way to whiten your smile is to pay attention to what you eat.
Crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can keep plaque from building up on your teeth. You can also improve the look of your teeth by making toothpaste with strawberries and baking soda.
Pineapple can also help improve the color of your teeth. Your teeth become discolored when you drink wine, coffee, and other colorful beverages. Eating sugary foods also affects the color of your teeth.
5. Brush and Floss
The best way to improve the look of your teeth is regular care by brushing and flossing.
Most discoloration comes from plaque buildup. Getting routine cleanings at your dentist’s office can also help your teeth look whiter as your hygienist removes the unsightly, yellow gunk from your teeth and around your gums.
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