If you are searching for ways on how to whiten teeth, there are plenty of commercially available options to try. However, there are also natural remedies you can try at home to whiten teeth without using chemicals. Just remember, it is still best to consult with your dentist to discuss the best option for you.

5 ways to whiten teeth naturally

1. Brush your teeth regularly

It is not just important to brush your teeth but to do it the right way. First, make it a point to brush your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes. Remember to do it gently, covering the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces. Gently brush your tongue as well to help remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Experts advise not to brush immediately after eating acidic foods and drink as the brushing action can allow the acids to erode the tooth enamel. You can also use whitening toothpaste that gently removes surface stains.

2. Try baking soda

Baking soda is known to have tooth whitening properties which makes it a popular toothpaste ingredient. Not only does it have mild abrasive effect that helps remove stains, it also makes the pH levels in your mouth more alkaline, thus helps prevent tooth decay.

You can also mix the baking soda with hydrogen peroxide for a more powerful stain removing action, as one study suggests. You need one (1) tablespoon of baking soda and two (2) tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide for this DIY toothpaste. Experts do warn not to overuse this homemade toothpaste as it can potentially erode the tooth enamel.

3. Include fruits and vegetables in your diet

Not only are they good for your health, but crunchy fruits and vegetables also aid in removing plaque. In particular, papaya and pineapple are believed to be effective in whitening teeth. Papain and bromelain found in these fruits help break down plaque and whiten teeth.

4. Use activated charcoal

Activated charcoal has mild abrasive effect and can help remove surface stains. Keep in mind though that there is still no scientific study that can back up claims of its whitening effect on teeth.

Activated charcoals are available in both powder and capsule forms. If you would like to try, experts suggest using your fingers instead of a regular toothbrush to rub the activated charcoal on your teeth. You can either make a paste by mixing it with water or apply directly using your fingers.

5. Oil pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice of keeping the mouth clean and promoting oveal dental health. It helps kill bacteria in the mouth that may help reduce inflammation. While sunflower and sesame oil are traditionally used in oil pulling, coconut oil is also a popular option because of its known benefits.

In particular, coconut oil is packed with lauric acid that is effective in killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. By practicing regular oil pulling, you reduce bacteria and plaque in the mouth, thus, prevent gingivitis. While there is no scientific study yet that proves its whitening effect, oil pulling is considered safe, hence, many try this practice.

To oil pull, you will need one (1) tablespoon of coconut oil. Simply swish it in your mouth for 20 minutes before spitting it out. Then bush your teeth as normal.

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