5 Natural Remedies for Whiter Teeth

Your smile is important, it says a lot about you as a person.

It takes on average seven seconds for someone to form an impression of you, but a smile with dazzling white teeth can change it all.

So, DESIblitz has comprised a list of the top 5 natural methods for whiter teeth.

Coconut Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic method used for oral and dental hygiene. It is thought to be one of the most effective ways of whitening teeth.

Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil (raw extra virgin) within the mouth. It is commonly swished for 20 minutes. This will (gradually) remove surface stains.

There are multiple benefits of oil pulling; it detoxes the body, boosts your energy and can also stop headaches and migraines. Coconut oil pulling has grown in popularity in recent years, and is a rising trend in the west.

When asked what he thinks about teeth whitening methods, Rohit says: “I’ve doing oil pulling for almost 2 weeks and can definitely see a difference.”

Baking Soda Paste

Sodium bicarbonate or baking sodium is considered to be an effective way to whiten teeth. However, this method isn’t advised for constant use as it damages the enamel.

Mix together, a few teaspoons of baking soda and just enough lemon juice (or water) to form a paste. Now, with the paste you’ve formed, brush your teeth as normal with it. Allow it to sit for two minutes before rinsing.

The abrasiveness of the baking soda and the citric acid of the lemon juice removes plaque and stains. But at the same time, it destroys enamel, rendering teeth sensitive. The loss of enamel can lead to dental erosion.

To avoid long-term harm, restrict baking soda use to only once a week, for a maximum of two minutes each time.

Skin of Fruit

A safer way to whiten teeth is to use the skin of fruit.

This method may seem quite unorthodox but it is effective. Using mother nature’s natural teeth whiteners – fruit!

In general, eating raw fruit and vegetables is thought to help keep your teeth healthy and build your immunity.

Rub the inside skin of an orange on your teeth.

Let the residue (juice) sit for a few minutes then brush your teeth. Don’t forget to floss as the skin may get stuck between gaps in the teeth.

When using the skin of a banana, the same procedure should be taken. However, instead of letting the residue sit for a few minutes, it should sit for 15 minutes.

It’s advised that this method (banana) should be done only a few times a week. This is because the acid in the skin of fruit can erode the enamel.

Activated Charcoal Powder

Probably the most unusual method on this list. But don’t fear, it works!

Activated charcoal powder not only absorbs chemicals but also removes surface stains, leading to whiter teeth.

Beware however, as the charcoal can permanently turn the bristles of the toothbrush black.

Dip the bristles (make sure they’re wet) into the coal. Brush your teeth for 2-3 minutes GENTLY. By this point, your mouth will be dry.

Simply, rinse out your mouth out thoroughly until the water coming out of your mouth is clear.

Finally, brush your teeth as normal. This final step is very crucial as it removes any left over coal stuck between your teeth.

Strawberries and Baking Soda

Strawberries are considered to be a great way of whitening teeth. This is because they contain an astringent and vitamin C. Together, they work by removing stains and plaque.

Pulp a strawberry into a bowl and mix well with half a teaspoon of baking soda.

Apply the paste on to the teeth and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes. Afterwards, thoroughly rinse out your mouth and brush your teeth to get rid of any leftover residue.

Top Tip ~ Brushing in circles helps avoid the weakening of teeth!

BONUS: Dental Disclosing Tablets.

Although this isn’t really a remedy of such, dental disclosing tablets should help when brushing your teeth:

• Brush your teeth. Once you’ve done that, chew on a tablet and use your saliva to spread it around your mouth.
• When you’ve felt that you’ve covered the entirety of your mouth, spit out the excess saliva and rinse your mouth out with water.
• Brush your teeth thoroughly to remove all the stains highlighted by the tablet.

Dental hygiene is a must for healthy whiter teeth. Aside from brushing at least twice a day, flossing will also help improve the appearence of your teeth.

According to Dr. M Siddhu: “A lot of Indians don’t take flossing too seriously but it’s time they did.”

For the best results, make the natural methods listed above a part of your daily morning routine.

This way, you’re more inclined to keep at it. And before you know it, you’ll have the pearly white teeth that you deserve.