A few small changes can make a difference to your oral health and hygiene. You can also use these simple home remedies to have whiter teeth.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on December 27, 2019. It has since been updated.
Tooth discoloration is not just an aesthetic concern but also a sign of health. It can be caused by factors like excessive smoking, poor oral hygiene, etc. diet, etc. Tooth discoloration can be divided into two categories—intrinsic and extrinsic. Stains that impact one’s tooth enamel are extrinsic stains. Intrinsic stains are more crucial as they occur in the tooth’s dentin, the dense bone tissue that makes up nearly the entire tooth reports Cleveland Clinic.
Smoking is a big contributor to tooth discoloration; it can also lead to gum bleeding at times. Therefore, for better oral health it is imperative to cut down on smoking and also go easy on food and beverages that could lead to tooth decay. Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeing a dentist regularly can also help, reports WebMD.
Here are a few natural ways to get rid of yellow teeth and ensure good oral health.
Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that can help clean teeth, reports the American Dental Association. A study published by the Journal of American Dental Association proved that baking soda is a safe way to brighten the teeth, and it can also help fight bacteria, bad breath, and plaque. These two elements can be mixed together like a paste and used on the teeth directly.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide.
- Mix the two ingredients until you form a paste.
- Brush for 2 to 3 minutes.
This element is known to be abrasive on stains and toxins. It also fights off bacteria that causes yellow stains. However, those having sensitive teeth should not use activated charcoal as it might be too harsh on the enamel.
- Place a toothpaste-sized amount of activated charcoal on a toothbrush.
- Gently brush in a circular motion for a minimum of 2 minutes.
- You can also mix activated charcoal with water and use it as a mouth rinse (optional).
Apple cider vinegar is a natural bleach, which can help break down stains caused by tobacco, alcohol, caffeine, and aerated beverages, according to PubMed. The best way to use this product is by using it as a mouth wash.
- Dilute 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in 5 ounces of water.
- Swish it around your mouth vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
Fruit peels that contain D-limonene work as a natural bleach that can not only fight bacteria and break down stain but do so gently. Banana, lemon, strawberry, and orange peels can do a good job at this.
- Rub a fruit peel on your teeth for a minimum of 2 minutes.
- Once done, rub your mouth with water thoroughly.
Fruits that contain a high percentage of water like watermelon, oranges, grapes can not only help fight stains but also remove bacteria that arise from food stuck in your mouth. Eating crunchy vegetables like celery and raw carrots can help reduce plaque in a natural and harmless way.
While we might go the extra mile to remove stains, it is critical to understand that daily oral hygiene in the form of brushing and flossing regularly can go a long way in maintaining healthy teeth. It is important to brush twice daily with circular motions as this minimizes gum irritation and leads to cleaner teeth.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10958-tooth-discoloration
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-discoloration
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10656352
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/whiten-teeth-naturally#14
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
