Get a Great Smile at Home With Natural Ways to Whiten Teeth

White teeth are something most people strive for. There are professional treatments available, but these can be very costly. While everyone should always consult their dentist before using any natural ways to whiten teeth, they are generally safe for most people. There are things that can be used that can be made that will make those pearly whites white again, or at least a few shades whiter.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain malic acid, which has astringent properties. The astringent properties may help to remove surface discolorations. When strawberries are combined with baking soda, they can be used as a natural teeth cleaner that offers some whitening help. This will not replace dental bleaching treatments, but it can help keep teeth whiter than they would be without any treatment. Strawberries and baking soda is also very inexpensive and a quick way to brighten a smile. However, malic acid is an acid so this treatment should not be used too often because the tooth enamel could become damaged with frequent use. To use this remedy, crush up a strawberry completely and then mix in a half tablespoon of baking soda. Make sure this is thoroughly blended. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently spread this onto the teeth and make sure each tooth is covered well. Let this sit on the teeth for about five minutes, then thoroughly brush and floss the teeth to remove all of this mixture. Also make sure to rinse after brushing. The strawberry and baking soda treatment can be done once a week.

Lemons

Lemons are also acidic and this acidity may help to remove surface stains on teeth. This is one of the easiest natural ways to whiten teeth because a lemon or some lemon juice, along with some baking soda is all that is needed. Simply take a half tablespoon of baking soda and then mix in enough lemon juice to create a paste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply this mixture to teeth. Allow it to sit for about five minutes and then thoroughly brush and floss the teeth, and then rinse. This should be done no more than once a week to prevent enamel erosion.

Apples

Apples may help to prevent tooth decay and the staining of teeth. The texture of apples can help to remove plaque when they are being eaten and apples also have natural astringent properties like strawberries do which may help to remove some surface stains. Apples are also a good choice to eat after a meal when you cannot brush your teeth. Eating an apple, or even just two slices, will help to remove surface stains, plaque, and food debris just like brushing would.

Resources

Colgate. (1997). Improving My Smile (Tooth Whitening and Tooth Bonding). Retrieved on November 15, 2010 from Colgate: https://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/ToothWhiteningCosDent/Bonding/Bonding/ImprovingMySmile.cvsp

Health.com. (2008). How to Whiten Your Teeth Naturally. Retrieved on November 15, 2010 from Health.com: https://www.health.com/health/article/0,,20410846,00.html