Teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching, is an increasingly popular and prevalent dental procedure that takes an important place in cosmetic dentistry. With time, adult teeth experience changes in color because of changes in mineral structure, eating habits, tobacco, dark-colored beverages, and more. In addition to food choices, some medications can also cause tooth enamel to lose its brilliance, shine, and color. According to the Federation of Dental Association, bleaching whitens the teeth beyond the natural color.
While dental bleaching is often done professionally in the office of a dentist, several at-home remedies have emerged, making teeth whitening less harsh and less expensive.
Here are a few of the options for at-home tooth whitening.
BAKING SODA
Baking soda is an excellent whitening agent that contains a variety of whitening properties making it an excellent dental bleaching agent. To attain the benefits of baking soda, just brush your teeth in a regular manner and get some toothpaste and baking soda on a cotton swab. Next, rub the mixture on your teeth and leave it for 5 minutes. Rinse and brush again in a regular manner. Repeating this on a regular basis can result in significant whitening and improved smoothness of teeth.
WHITE TRUFFLE OIL
Truffle oil has special properties within it to reduce yellowness present on the teeth, making them whiter and shiny. Similar to baking soda, all you need to do is just dip your toothbrush in white truffle oil and put some toothpaste on it. Brush your teeth in a regular manner. Repeat the process at least three times a day after meals. You will notice a considerable difference in the color of your teeth with less yellowness. Slowly and steadily, the yellowness disappears, resulting in white, shiny teeth.
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
Hydrogen peroxide’s cleansing nature makes it an excellent agent to whiten teeth. Just dip your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide and brush your teeth in a regular manner. Make sure you do not swallow the peroxide. Once done, rinse the mouth with warm water (another great tooth whitening agent). It is one of the most popular and commonly used methods to whiten teeth at home.
OLIVE OIL
Olive oil has been known to have properties to reduce stains on the teeth. It is especially beneficial for people who have developed stains on their teeth because of excessive smoking and tea or coffee. All you need to do is just put some olive oil on a washcloth and rub it on the stained teeth.
SEA SALT
Sea salt combined with water or cider vinegar can will brighten teeth a bit, but no more so than a commercial application. Just make a mixture and apply on teeth for 5 minutes or so. Make sure you do not use this method repeatedly as it may cause you to experience tooth damage through decay or increased sensitivity.
RAISINS
Raisins can help to keep teeth white by stimulating the production of saliva, which naturally helps to rinse away plaque and impurities. Make sure you do not let raisins stick in between teeth as it can help the formation of cavities. Rinse your mouth immediately after having raisins.
CITRUS FRUITS
Citrus fruits like oranges and pineapples can also stimulate the production of saliva, resulting in dissolving and rinsing plaque. These can be pretty useful in whitening teeth in the longer run. Rinsing teeth with 1:1 water and lemon juice solution once or twice a week can help. Remember, overdoing it can result in damage to the teeth.
So while you may not be able to afford a dental whitening, or are concerned with the health benefits associated with a strong chemical whitening, these tips can help you afford a gorgeous smile you will want to always be showing off.
For more information please contact Desert Lake Family Dentistry today!
