If you're missing the days of a bright, white smile and you're looking to reverse the yellowing, we've got some natural teeth whitening solutions for you.
Activated Charcoal
A rising trend in health and wellness circles is to use activated charcoal for teeth whitening. This ingredient is now found in toothpaste, as well as in capsule and powder forms. These products can be sourced online, from drugstores, or from natural food stores.
Activated charcoal is essentially a food-grade, oxidized version of charcoal. It's derived from coconut shells, wood, and other raw materials and subjected to intense heat to create a fine powder. To use it, mix the capsule or powder forms with water to create a paste, brush your teeth with it, wait for 3 minutes, rinse, and then brush again with regular toothpaste.
Pros and Cons of Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is lauded for its high absorbency and toxin-removing properties, but there's no scientific evidence to support its teeth whitening effects. It does, however, have a cleaning effect as it's mildly abrasive and can absorb surface stains. But for a thorough whitening, a remedy needs to work on both surface and deep-seated stains beneath the enamel.
Its abrasive nature can be damaging if used daily, potentially wearing out tooth enamel and exposing the dentin, the tooth's second layer. Choose a product with a Dental Association's Seal of Approval to ensure it's safe and won't damage your enamel.
Other Natural Teeth Whitening Alternatives
If activated charcoal isn't for you, here are some other natural whitening solutions you can try:
Apple Cider Vinegar
Known for its stain-removing properties due to its acidity, apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy. Dilute one teaspoon in a small cup of water, swish around your mouth for 3 minutes, then rinse. Avoid overuse as it can damage tooth enamel.
Baking Soda
Baking soda, or Sodium Bicarbonate, can gently scrub away stains. Either dip your toothbrush into it or combine it with your toothpaste. Be gentle to avoid gum damage. Alternatively, make a paste with water and rub it on your teeth for 2 minutes before rinsing.
Epsom Salts
Swishing Epsom salt mixed with warm water for a few minutes can kill bacteria that stain and damage teeth. You can also brush with it by dipping your toothbrush in the salt.
Foods for Whiter Teeth
Certain foods can naturally help maintain a whiter smile. Here are a few:
Banana Peels
The peel of a ripe banana, usually discarded, can help reduce stains and whiten teeth. Rub the inside of the peel on your teeth for a few minutes, then brush.
Celery
Fresh celery and other crunchy vegetables can prevent discoloration by rubbing the surface of your teeth and cleaning small particles. Their water content also helps cleanse your mouth.
Guava Leaves
Guava leaves are rich in beneficial compounds like flavonoids and phenols. Apart from reducing plaque-causing bacteria and inflammation, they can lighten tooth stains. Wash the leaves, crush them into a paste, apply to your teeth, wait a minute, then rinse.
Ensure not to use items that are excessively rough or acidic as it may damage enamel. It's also advisable to quit smoking and limit consumption of staining foods and drinks like red wine, coffee, and tea. If natural whitening doesn't work for you, consult a dentist. And remember, results won't show instantly.
