“Share your smile with the world. It’s a symbol of friendship and peace,” said Christie Brinkley. But how will you share that beautiful smile if your teeth are yellow? Since most people are embarrassed by yellow teeth and hide their smile. But this is not the only reason that you should keep them white. Healthy and white teeth are the mirror of your dental health and thus they need to have good hygiene.
But before that, did you know the default colors of Teeth is yellow, says Badhaai.
A cosmetic dentist will easily get rid of discoloration of teeth by using whitening strips or fluids but they are costly and can have an adverse effect in the long run. Below is a list of natural methods that are not that expensive and very effective with little or no side effects.
Let’s check these 10 ways to whiten teeth at home; they will have quick result too.
1. Apple cider vinegar
What will you need?
- Apple cider vinegar- ½ teaspoon
- Water- I cup
How to use this?
- Add the vinegar to water and mix it well.
- Gargle with this water before brushing your teeth.
- Do this 2-3 times a week in morning.
Why does this work?
It contains mild aid that helps in removing the stain and keeps them whiter with regular usage.
2. Baking soda and lime juice
What will you need?
- Baking soda- 1 teaspoon
- Lime or lemon juice- I teaspoon
- Toothbrush
How to use this?
- Add baking soda and lime juice together and mix it well.
- Apply this to your teeth using a toothbrush.
- After 2-3 minutes, rinse your mouth with water.
- Initially do this twice a week, then once every 7-10 days.
Why does this work?
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and alkaline in nature and helps to eradicate yellow stains and reduces acidity in the mouth respectively. Lemon juice has acidic property and keeps the discoloration at bay. It is also a natural antiseptic agent.
3. Coconut oil
What will you need?
- Organic coconut oil
How to use this?
- Rub some oil on your teeth with fingers, don’t swallow it.
- After some time rinse your mouth and brush your teeth.
- Do this every morning.
Why does this work?
It contains lauric acid that keeps plaque-causing bacteria in check and keeps the breath fresh.
4. Orange oil
What will you need?
- Orange essential oil- 2-3 drops
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
How to use this?
Put oil on your brush and then put the paste on it, and normally brush your teeth.
Repeat this every morning for a week or two.
Why does this work?
It is made from the fruit that contains citrus that aids in teeth whitening and the essential oil helps promote healthy gums as it has antifungal properties.
5. Sesame oil
What will you need?
- Sesame oil- 1 tablespoon
How to use this?
- Swish the oil in the mouth for 15-20 min but do this on empty stomach and don’t ingest the oil.
- Swish it slowly and after 20 min, spit the oil out and gargle with water.
- Brush normally after this.
- Do this once in morning.
Why does this work?
It removes teeth stains and dental plaque.
6. Salt and lemon
What will you need?
- Sea salt- 1 teaspoon
- Lemon juice- 2 teaspoon
How to use this?
- Mix the salt and lemon juice.
- Use this to brush your teeth normally.
- Do this twice a week.
Why does this work?
Lemon juice has bleaching properties that remove stains and salt is a gentle exfoliator that removes the old stains.
7. Turmeric
What will you need?
- Turmeric- 1/8 teaspoon
- Toothbrush
How to use this?
- Sprinkle the turmeric on the toothbrush and brush normally.
- After 2-3 minutes, rinse your mouth properly and then brush with your normal toothbrush.
- One time use of this will have a great result, use after few days if you still require it.
Why does this work?
The mild abrasive property helps in removing the stain and also makes gums and teeth strong.
8. Guava leaves
What will you need?
- Guava leaves- 1 or 2
How to use this?
- Crush the leaves to make a paste and rub it on your teeth.
- After a minute or so, rinse your mouth and brush normally.
- Repeat this alternately for a few days.
Why does this work?
Guava leaves treat a number of dental issues, for example, plaque, contaminations, and gum swelling. Its flavonoids and phenols expel the oxidative pressure caused on the teeth by various microorganisms, which is one reason for yellow stains.
9. Neem leaves
What will you need?
- Neem leaves- 4-5
- Water- 1 and a half cup
How to use this?
- Boil the neem in water for some time. Don’t let it overheat.
- Strain the water and when it is lukewarm, gargle with this before or after brushing.
- Repeat this every day or every alternate day.
Why does this work?
Neem is a natural astringent and a soothing agent that keeps gum healthy without letting it stain.
10. Strawberries
What will you need?
- Strawberry- 1
- Baking soda
How to use this?
- Mash the strawberry and mix it with baking soda.
- With the help of a toothbrush or your fingers, apply it to your teeth and leave it like that for few minutes.
- Gargle with water and brush normally with a paste.
- Do this once a week.
Why does this work?
It contains malic and ascorbic acid that lightens teeth stains.
Additionally, friends, there are many more home remedies for teeth whitening. Do follow these tips and let me know what was your experience.