Your teeth are one of the first things people notice; they’re a sign of health as well as confidence. When making a first impression, most worry about having aged, crooked or discoloured teeth, which can send a signal that you don’t really care about yourself. Some people, no matter how many times they brush their teeth, have teeth stains from habits like drinking coffee or tea and/or smoking. Often times, yellow or brown tinted teeth can also be part of a larger problem like unhealthy gums, thinning enamel and overall poor dental hygiene. Who doesn’t want to have a beautiful smile with white, sparkling teeth? Then again; what’s the best way to whiten your teeth?
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is an antibacterial agent and works great as a total mouth and gum cleaner and keeps the mouth free of germs. According to researchers, it has many uses in dentistry today, with its most common application to whiten your teeth. Baking soda has natural whitening properties, which is why it is a popular ingredient in commercial toothpaste. It’s a mild abrasive that can help scrub away surface stains on teeth. Additionally, baking soda creates an alkaline environment in your mouth which prevents bacteria from growing.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar works effectively as a natural antibiotic and teeth/gum cleanser and also removes stubborn stains on the teeth. ACV is especially helpful for removing stains due to common culprits like coffee and nicotine. ACV contains compounds including acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics and enzymes, which kills germs and at the same time fosters the growth of beneficial “good” probiotic bacteria. Since it is naturally acidic, it helps break down plaque or other substances stick to the teeth. The pH of apple cider vinegar can remove stains from your teeth, which helps whiten the teeth naturally. The key to using ACV for teeth whitening is to be consistent, using it for at least a month continuously in order to see the best results.
Charcoal: Charcoal, which is an absorbing product used to trap toxins inside the body may help whiten your teeth by absorbing plaque and microscopic tidbits that cause staining. To whiten your teeth naturally with charcoal, wet a toothbrush and dip into powdered charcoal. Brush teeth as normal paying special attention to areas showing the most staining. For best results, brush your teeth with powdered charcoal two to three times per week.
Fruits and Vegetables: While there is no substitute for brushing your teeth, crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can help rub plaque away as you chew. A diet high in fruits and vegetables may be good for both your body and your teeth. In particular, pineapple is a fruit that has been claimed to help whiten teeth.
Brushing and Flossing: The best way to prevent dental problems is still brushing and flossing daily. Be sure to brush before going to bed and in the morning when you wake up. After meals are essential too. Food left on your teeth can lead to stains but this can be avoided when they are immediately brushed off.
