Everyone’s teeth yellow over time. Just think about how often you use your teeth, and how often they come in contact with food and drinks that can stain. In addition to this, some yellowing can be hereditary. Or your enamel could be translucent; underneath the enamel is dentin, which is a yellowish color. So, if you have thin enamel, the yellow in the dentin can show through. 

It’s not uncommon to want to erase those stains and brighten your teeth for a whiter smile. In fact, in 2020 alone more than 37 million people used teeth whiteners. Worried that chemical whiteners could be unsafe? Here are some natural ways to brighten your teeth

1. Lemon, Orange, and Banana Peels. No official studies have ever been done on the effects that these fruit peels have on your smile, but people have reported that the citric acid in the peels has whitened their teeth. There’s no risk to trying it out, so why not?
2. Activated charcoal. Activated charcoal has been used in the medical field for years. Because of its ability to bind harmful chemicals, it is used to counteract overdoses and stop the effects of several poisons. There are many different dental products that include activated charcoal, but you can also buy a capsule and mix it with water on your own. Activated charcoal has never been ADA approved, so use with caution, and be sure to do your own research on proper amounts and application.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple Cider Vinegar has been known to reduce plaque buildup and stains on teeth since it is a bleaching agent. You can dilute it with water or just gargle it straight before brushing. Like charcoal, it hasn’t been tested so approach with caution.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda. You’ve probably seen these two together in several different toothpaste brands. Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, similar to apple cider vinegar, are bleaching agents, and hydrogen peroxide is known to kill bad bacteria. Mixing the two together can create a paste that you can brush onto your teeth. An at-home mixture may be harmful if you swallowed, so if it’s a risk for you we recommend toothpaste with these ingredients.
5. Oil Pulling. Oil pulling is the longstanding practice of rinsing your mouth out with natural, food-grade oil. This removes bad bacteria and toxins from your mouth. It is a traditional folk remedy practiced in India. Getting rid of the bad bacteria can help clean up your smile and even whiten your teeth. As an added bonus, oil pulling has been connected to gum health, reduced inflammation, and even cavity prevention. You can even try coconut oil, as it’s a bit more palatable.   

This list aside, the best way to keep your smile bright is to brush and floss twice a day and get two yearly deep cleanings at your dentist’s office. To schedule a cleaning, contact us today.