When it comes to teeth whitening, you can find many different methods presented online and in magazines – from oils to charcoal, and even turmeric. It’s no surprise that “DIY” teeth whitening is at the peak of popularity.
In this week’s blog from Dental Center 4Smile, find out the facts and myths about natural teeth whitening!
When we ask patients what they would most like to improve about their smile, the most common answer is whiter teeth.
Healthy smiles come in many shades, but the “brighter” the teeth, the more attractive they are to most people.
Although it’s tempting to think that ingredients from our kitchens could be the key to a brighter smile, DIY methods can do much more harm than good to your teeth.
Just because a method is natural doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
Below are a few examples that may seem healthy and effective in theory, but actually aren’t:
ABRASIVE AGENTS – ACTIVATED CHARCOAL AND BAKING SODA
MYTH
“Enamel-scrubbing” methods claim that brushing your teeth with ingredients such as activated charcoal or a baking soda paste will restore the shine to your smile.
FACT
There is no evidence showing that dental products with activated charcoal are safe or effective for your teeth.
Moreover, using materials that are too abrasive can actually make your teeth look more yellow. Enamel is what you want to whiten, but if you use an overly harsh scrub, you can wear it away. When that happens, the next layer of your tooth may become exposed – the softer, yellow tissue called dentin.
Instead, choose a whitening toothpaste without abrasive additives.
FRUIT
MYTH
The myth claims that you can make your teeth whiter and brighter by using household foods that are naturally acidic (such as lemons, oranges, apple cider vinegar) or that contain digestive enzymes (such as pineapple or mango).
FACT
When eaten, fruit is an excellent choice. However, fruit and vinegar contain acid. Fruit acids, when in prolonged contact with teeth or when used to scrub teeth, can wear down your enamel.
Enamel is the thin outer coating of the teeth that protects you from tooth sensitivity and cavities.
SPICES AND OILS – TURMERIC AND COCONUT OIL
MYTH
Rubbing coconut oil or turmeric powder on your teeth can help whiten them.
FACT
There is no reliable scientific evidence showing that coconut oil or turmeric whitens teeth. Instead, save oils and spices for healthy meals.
STILL INTERESTED IN NATURAL TEETH WHITENING?
The best natural ways to maintain white teeth are daily healthy habits, including:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes
- Use a whitening toothpaste without abrasive additives
- Clean between your teeth once a day, either with dental floss or an oral irrigator
- Limit foods and drinks that stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine
- Do not smoke or use tobacco
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional tartar removal
PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING
If you want to be sure of achieving the best possible teeth whitening results, consult professionals.
Dentist in Zagreb, Ivan Antolković, will offer you professional teeth whitening that allows your teeth to achieve the maximum natural whiteness suitable for your individual case.
