Many over-the-counter teeth whitening products promise amazing results. Some work well, some don’t seem to work at all, but what’s in these products anyway? The peroxide levels in some of them are quite high which can be an issue for those with sensitive teeth. The good news is there are home remedies to help whiten your teeth and them looking their brightest, naturally.
5 Home Remedies to Whiten Teeth Naturally
The following home remedies help improve smiles with ingredients you may already have in your home.
1. Oil Pulling
This technique to whiten teeth is a recent trend, but it’s origin dates back 3,000 years in India. It’s the traditional Ayurvedic form of oral therapy known as oil pulling. This simple process uses oil to “pull” the bacteria out of your mouth. To do this, swish a tablespoon of coconut or olive oil in your mouth for between five and 20 minutes every day, but don’t swallow it! It’s easy to incorporate this into your morning routine while making coffee or catching up on your news feed.
2. Baking Soda
A simple teeth whitening recipe is to mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water then apply it to your toothbrush. Baking soda is effective in cleaning teeth because it is a mild abrasive that can scrub away stains. You can use it along with toothpaste or instead of toothpaste.
3. An Apple a Day
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” or so they say, and it will make your dentist happy too. The malic acid in apples gives saliva production a boost which helps wash away bacteria. Apples have a lot of fiber too, so chewing on them also stimulates saliva production.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleaching agent which is why it is an ingredient in many of the teeth whitening products sold in stores. Swishing hydrogen peroxide around your mouth, even daily, may take some time to see results as the peroxide sold in drug stores is only three percent. Some people find that peroxides irritate their gums, so it may not be the best option for everyone. Choose what works best for you.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another recent trend in health and many people sing praises of its amazing benefits. It’s also used as a home remedy to whiten teeth due to its ability to destroy harmful bacteria while boosting the growth of more beneficial bacteria. The acids in apple cider vinegar help remove stains too.
Your Best Bet: Brush & Floss
Hopefully, you will have great success with the home remedies for teeth whitening listed above. The best way to whiten teeth naturally is to take care of them every day. Brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental checkups, and teeth cleaning all contribute to the overall health of your mouth.
