How Do You Whiten Your Teeth At Home?

Almost one in five people admit to “usually concealing their teeth in photos” because they are embarrassed about the color of their teeth. Although tooth color is not always an indicator of dental health, many people hold a perfectly proportioned smile with sparkly white teeth as a standard for health and beauty. This perception is spiking demand for in-office and over-the-counter whitening treatments and fueling a billion-dollar industry.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine states that any other color besides white or yellow-white is an abnormal tooth color. Tooth discoloration can be attributed to extrinsic stains that affect the enamel or intrinsic stains that appear within the tooth’s inner structure. While it is always important to get regular checkups with your dentist, there are several ways to improve your dental health and brighten your teeth at home.

Top Seven Ways to Whiten Your Teeth Naturally at Home

1. Step up on oral hygiene.
2. Use baking soda.
3. Clean teeth with oil pulling.  
4. Use apple cider vinegar or citrus peels.
5. Cut back on processed foods and beverages.
6. Eat teeth-strengthening foods.
7. Avoid smoking products.

The Top Seven Explained

Poor oral hygiene and eating habits are the leading causes of tooth discoloration. Teeth begin to appear more yellow as plaque and tartar build-up on the enamel. In addition to regular professional cleanings, consistent and proper brushing and flossing are critical to maintaining dental health and a bright smile.

It may be tempting to think that aggressive brushing or strong mouthwashes will improve dental health, but these things could promote discoloration. Brushing too often or too hard may wear down the enamel, while many commercial oral rinses contain high amounts of acid that erode the enamel as well.

You may already have baking soda at home for a myriad of other uses, but you can include them in your dental care regimen as well. Research has shown baking soda to be an effective agent at cleaning the mouth and aiding in white teeth.

Although research is limited, studies have shown that oil pulling provides remarkable benefits to oral health. Edible oils such as sesame, sunflower, olive, and coconut oils are popular for this practice that has been followed for millennia. These oils have antimicrobial properties that can help clean and protect the gums, which in turn may help your teeth appear healthier.

Apple cider vinegar is a natural cleanser for teeth and gums due to its pH. It contains a host of minerals, enzymes, and probiotics that eradicate harmful bacteria and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Orange or lemon peels, like apple cider vinegar, have good acids that can brighten teeth. Simply rub the rinds onto your teeth and rinse. Consistency and moderation are key, as any overused acid may erode enamel.

You may need to curb the intake of acidic foods and drinks that tend to stain and weaken teeth. Many processed foods, sodas, soft drinks, and some fruits are high in acid that can wear down enamel. Sugary foods and beverages compromise overall health, and the teeth suffer as well. Coffee and tea are major culprits behind tooth discoloration.

What you eat has a direct effect on your dental health. Including teeth-fortifying foods in your diet will help ensure stronger, healthier teeth that will retain their natural beauty. Foods that help improve the condition and appearance of your teeth and gums include dark leafy greens, yogurt, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, nuts, apples, and eggs.

Another way to maintain shiny, healthy teeth is to keep the components of smoking products away from them. The ingredients found in many smoking products are notorious for leaving yellow stains on the surface of teeth. Vaping is not healthy for teeth, either, because it promotes dry mouth which is another cause of tooth discoloration and decay.

Pearly white, picture-worthy teeth enhance your smile and self-esteem. Oral health and appearance are easy to maintain at home in addition to professional cleanings. By using these tips, the care you give your teeth will shine through.