Recent research demonstrates that around 18 percent of people try to conceal their teeth in photos. The embarrassment of yellow teeth appears to be the major contributing factor to this phenomenon.
Having white teeth has become a predominant beauty indicator of the cosmetically driven Western societies. The number one reason being: the effortlessness associated with teeth whitening. Getting your teeth white and shiny is nothing compared to hitting the gym religiously for 5 days a week, just so you lose one miserable pound of water weight.
Jokes aside, there are many teeth whitening treatments available today. This is well portrayed by the fact that Americans spend over $1.4 billion for such over-the-counter treatments. Some, you can do at home, while for others, you need to visit your dentist. However, they all have one thing in common, and that is, people’s desire for a whiter smile.
Unfortunately, brushing your teeth is not always enough. Especially if you are a dedicated coffee or tea drinker and enjoy to spoil your health with the occasional cigarette. Such habits greatly boost the teeth yellowing process and create stains that are pretty much impossible to remove without the use of whitening techniques.
The good news is that there is no need to break the bank in order to get your teeth whiter. There are natural remedies for stained and yellow teeth that work just as well as expensive dental procedures. They are easy to prepare and easy to apply.
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
This is very easy to prepare. In a small cup mix 4-5 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 freshly squeezed lemon. Leave the mix for about a minute, in order to form a paste.
Baking soda could be a bit rough, so scrub carefully without putting too much pressure on the toothbrush. Leave the mixture in your mouth for 2 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse with water.
Baking soda is very alkaline. This allows it to successfully break down the formation of enamel. Blended together with lemon juice, this mix acts like a natural bleach to your teeth.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Because of its strong antibacterial properties, hydrogen peroxide is extremely effective as an overall mouth and gum cleaner. This chemical compound is widely used in toothpaste and mouthwash products, because of its ability to destroy germs. Another application is for whitening teeth.
Mixing a small amount of hydrogen peroxide with baking soda will create a whitening toothpaste. This easy to make mix has been proven to remove plaque as well as whiten the surface of teeth.
Coconut Oil Pulling
The folks over at Dental Dorks were kind enough to share this delicious remedy with us. Besides being a healthy substitute for other cooking oils, coconut oil can help you achieve whiter teeth. Unlike the previous two natural remedies, this time around you does not need to mix anything. Simply take a spoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it between your teeth for 5 to 20 minutes.
If you cannot hold liquid for your mouth for such periods of time, without slowing it, try applying the oil to a clean piece of cloth. Soak the cloth modestly in the coconut oil, and rub your teeth for 2-3 minutes, twice a day.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Besides being a great anti-oxidant, apple vinegar is a very effective gum and teeth cleaner. The secret of ACV is that it contains acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics, and enzymes capable of killing germs. Its natural acidity makes it very potent against plaque and stains. This results in a natural whitening process of the surface of the teeth.
The easiest way is to either brush with ACV or apply it to a piece of cloth and carefully scrub your teeth. However, do not forget to brush your teeth with regular toothpaste afterward. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic and it can remove the enamel of your teeth if used excessively.
Strawberry, Salt, and Baking Soda Scrub
Anything that contains strawberry is delicious. After including so many acidic and tasteless scrubs, it is time for something that actually tastes good.
For this scrub, you have to use whole strawberries, not a syrup or a jam. Take a few red and tasty strawberries and mash them into a pulp while adding a pinch of salt, and half a teaspoon of baking soda. Leave the mixture for 5-6 minutes before using.
This is best utilized with a toothbrush. Just do not forget to wash your toothbrush after use, and rinse your mouth thoroughly.
A daily routine is the most important element when it comes to whitening your teeth without using a dental procedure. If you take any of the above-mentioned 5 remedies and apply it twice a day for 2-3 weeks, you will begin to see the difference. Consistency is key!
About The Author:
Peter is a dental professional and a blogger from the windy city of Chicago. Unlike popular belief, he does not sleep with his toothbrush under the pillow. However, he does enjoy the occasional snuggles with his water flosser.
