11 Tips for Whitening Teeth
When we see actors and models with their perfect white teeth, many of us wonder what we can do to improve our own smile. We’ll try whitening toothpastes, special toothbrushes, and home remedies to get pearly whites, but do any work?
If you are looking to brighten your smile, then here are the 11 best ways to whiten your teeth:
Activated Charcoal
One of the easiest ways to whiten your teeth, activated charcoal is also one of the cheapest. Activated charcoal can be purchased in tablets that you crush into powder. Dip your wet toothbrush in and brush your teeth like normal. However, be sure to ask your dentist for advice before using activated charcoal, as some brands can be too abrasive for your teeth’s enamel.
Powdered Milk and Toothpaste
This probably sounds like an odd suggestion, but occasionally adding a sprinkling of powdered milk to your toothpaste can not only help whiten your teeth but help keep them healthy.
Baking Soda
Some toothpastes already include baking soda, which is a popular method of whitening. It is mildly abrasive, helping to scrub off stains. In addition, it creates an alkaline environment in your mouth, inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Add about one teaspoon of the baking soda to two teaspoons of water and add the resulting paste to your toothbrush, brushing normally.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Another popular method of whitening, hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent which can also kill bacteria in the mouth. It is commonly used in the whitening products found in your local drug store. Just beware that using hydrogen peroxide in high concentrations can irritate your gums. It is best used as a rinse before brushing.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This natural cleaning agent can kill bacteria and whiten teeth, but should not be often, as it can erode your enamel, softening your teeth. Use it as a monthly rinse, diluted with water. After use, rinse your mouth with water.
Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut oil is an organic antibacterial that can aid in fighting gum disease. “Pulling” involves pushing and pulling a tablespoon of the oil through your teeth and swishing it around in your mouth. Do this for at least 5 minutes and up to 20. Spit the oil out in a wastebasket to avoid clogging your drains.
Essential Oils Whitening Toothpaste
Mix equal portions of peppermint oil, coconut oil, spearmint essential oil, baking soda, and cinnamon bark oil. Use to brush twice per day.
Turmeric Whitening Toothpaste
Mix turmeric powder, natural coconut oil, spearmint essential oil, and some drops of peppermint oil. Turmeric and coconut oil are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, and they both help protect your gums. While there’s no direct evidence that turmeric can whiten your teeth, it has many other health benefits. Here is more information about if whitening your teeth with turmeric works.
Baking Soda and Strawberries
Why strawberries? Well, aside from tasting great, strawberries contain malic acid, which is used in a variety of dental products remove surface stains and whiten teeth. The addition of baking soda helps remove discoloration. Crush a large strawberry in half a teaspoon of baking soda, blending until smooth. Apply the mixture to your teeth and leave in place for 5 minutes, then rinse and brush with either baking soda or your regular toothpaste, as you prefer.
Banana Peels
Before tossing your banana peel in the compost, rub the inside on your teeth for about 2 minutes, then brush with either baking soda or your regular toothpaste. Banana peels are full of minerals that can be absorbed by your teeth to whiten them, such as potassium, manganese, and magnesium.
Laser Teeth Whitening
The best option for anyone looking for the best and most immediate results for teeth whitening. Laser Teeth Whitening treatments that take place in the dental office reach below the tooth’s surface, for a more significant, lasting result. Typically, you can expect results to last one to two years before another whitening treatment is required. Studies have also shown that the treatments have no adverse effects on enamel. You can book a Laser Teeth Whitening Appointment with Pier Dental in North Vancouver today. Book Here.
There are undoubtedly many more suggestions to be found, but always be sure to research them before trying; some methods may prove too harsh, causing either irritation to your gums, or even damage to your teeth. You can help keep your teeth white by avoiding staining foods and beverages, cigarettes, and chewing tobacco. Of course, you should also be sure that you are brushing and flossing regularly and seeing your dentist for regular cleanings. Ask your dentist for advice before starting any DIY whitening regimen.