Several things might cause your teeth to lose their luster and become discolored. For instance, your enamel, the protective coating of your teeth, may get discolored by consuming certain foods—coffee and red wine are major culprits. The accumulation of plaque on your teeth is another factor that may contribute to their yellowing and discoloration. Usually, frequent cleaning and whitening products will be effective in removing this sort of staining. But most individuals may avoid using teeth whitening products because of the chemicals used to achieve the desired bleaching effect. Nonetheless, various chemical-free methods are available if you want whiter teeth:
1. Brush with baking soda
Due to its naturally occurring bleaching capabilities, baking soda is commonly found in commercial toothpaste. The moderate abrasiveness of this product makes it helpful in removing superficial tooth discoloration and inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. Although this treatment won’t make your teeth whiter overnight, you should see a change in how they look over time.
2. Utilize hydrogen peroxide
Because of its bleaching properties, hydrogen peroxide eliminates oral germs and helps whiten teeth. Numerous over-the-counter and commercially available teeth whitening products have high hydrogen peroxide concentrations. Research shows that brushing your teeth twice a day for only six weeks with toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda may whiten your teeth by 62%. However, excessive hydrogen peroxide may irritate gums, cause discomfort, and increase cancer risk. Therefore, to utilize it safely, dilute it with water and use it as a mouthwash before you brush your teeth.
3. Try oil pulling
Oil pulling is rinsing your mouth with oil to eliminate plaque, germs, and food particles. Most people use coconut oil for its delicious flavor and several health advantages. Furthermore, coconut oil has a high concentration of lauric acid, recognized for its capacity to lessen inflammation and destroy germs. While oil pulling may help whiten teeth, it shouldn’t replace regular cleaning and flossing.
4. Consume high-fiber meals
Vegetables and legumes rich in fiber may help preserve tooth enamel from acid erosion when chewed regularly. Leafy green vegetables like spinach and beans, and crunchy fruits like apples can stimulate saliva, which washes out acid.
5. Banana peel
Banana peels are rich in minerals, including manganese, potassium, and magnesium. Ingesting these minerals into your body can naturally brighten your smile. To do this, get a banana peel and rub it gently between your teeth for around two minutes. Afterward, you can use baking soda or your regular toothpaste to eliminate any lingering banana peel particles.
6. Use activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is a low-effort, low-cost option for achieving a whiter smile. Cleaning your teeth with activated charcoal is a great way to get rid of plaque and tartar. Activated charcoal is similar to conventional charcoal; however, it is manufactured specifically for medicinal use. Activated charcoal is safe for teeth and has no taste or odor.
7. Ensure your diet includes calcium
Some tooth discoloration results from enamel erosion, exposing the yellow dentin underneath. Therefore, to prevent tooth enamel erosion and maintain a healthy, white smile, increase your intake of calcium-rich foods such as cheese, broccoli, and milk.
There are many natural options available to help whiten your teeth, and most of these treatments operate by delicately erasing surface stains from your teeth. However, the single most effective way to avoid and cut down on tooth yellowing is to adopt consistent good dental hygiene.
