Having a set of pearly whites is always a great way to capture attention and to make people feel comfortable upon an initial greeting, but some of the foods and beverages we consume daily threaten the appearance of an ivory-colored smile. There are several whitening products on the market that promise to brighten teeth within a matter of weeks, and some even within a matter of minutes a day. Some of these products protect enamel as they whiten, but others can cause teeth to soften and become sensitive to the touch. If you are seeking a whitening formula that won’t harm your teeth, look no further! There are several inexpensive and interesting ways to whiten the teeth without causing harm to the teeth. Check out these natural ways to brighten your smile!
Banana Peel
If you’ve eaten a banana and are about to throw out the banana peel, you may want to think twice about tossing it if you are in the market for a teeth whitening agent. This is a little known fact, but the inside of a banana peel contains a pasty white substance that is known to have whitening properties. Take the inside of the banana peel, rub it on the surface of the teeth, let it sit for one minute and brush the teeth clean with a toothbrush and water. This is a less abrasive method of whitening than using baking soda.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
It makes sense that apple cider vinegar would eventually remove stubborn stains on the teeth, especially from coffee and nicotine. It has been proven that it does work but you have to be consistent and it takes a least a month of continuous usage to see results. Some say that using ACV looks like you just got your teeth professionally cleansed. Be careful, as with all acids, it can remove the enamel on your teeth as well. After brushing with ACV, you will need to brush again with regular toothpaste, preferably a non fluoride paste, or rinse your mouth out really well.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most common household agents known to whiten teeth naturally. To transform this white powder, mix baking soda with lemon juice until it turns into a paste. Brush the paste on your teeth using a tooth brush, wait for one minute, then brush thoroughly to remove completely. The baking soda will remove surface stains while the lemon juice will act as a bleaching agent. This method can be abrasive to tooth enamel if done too often, so only use this buffering method once a week.
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Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is known for being a powerful bleaching agent and is safe to use in the mouth as well as on teeth. Its composition is H2O2, which is very close to water, and not only helps to whiten teeth but to freshen breath as well. Combine half part hydrogen peroxide with half part water, and use the mixture as a mouthwash after brushing. This is a gentile way to ensure your smile shines at its brightest!
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Dental Health center for more articles and tips.