The benefits of having great looking teeth cannot be over estimated. Good, white teeth can help boost your self esteem, make a positive first impression and also increase your overall image. Yet, studies have shown that an estimated 18 percent of all people attempt to conceal their teeth. While the reasons vary, commonly this is because of stained, yellow teeth that just won’t whiten, no matter how much brushing is done. Nobody should have to conceal his teeth for this reason. And while there are plenty of cosmetic procedures that can help make teeth look whiter, you can also take measures into your own hands at home. Here’s a look at easy, natural ways to whiten your teeth:
Apple Cider Vinegar:
Brushing with Apple Cider Vinegar, is one proven teeth-whitening method, although those who administered it say that it takes about a month of regular brushing with the substance to notice a real difference. Specifically, this method shines in terms of removing the likes of coffee and nicotine stains from the teeth. One thing to note is that it is an acid, so following the administration of Apple Cider Vinegar, you should either brush thoroughly with a standard toothpaste or wash your mouth out well. If acid is left to dwell inside the mouth, it could end up eating away at the tooth enamel.
Coconut Oil Pulling:
Although one of the newer discoveries in natural teeth-whitening, many are praising the results from coconut oil pulling. The best way to use this as a teeth whitener is to place a spoonful in your mouth and swish it around like mouthwash, add drops of it to your toothbrush and brush your teeth with it or dab it with a wash cloth and apply it to the teeth that way.
Eat Cheese
Eating cheese can also help promote a healthy smile. That’s because cheese contains the milk protein casein, which works to make enamel stronger. Essentially, by eating cheese, you’re helping to keep your tooth enamel healthy.
Eat Your Veggies
Yes, simply eating crunchy vegetables, such as celery and carrots (as well as fruits like apples and pears) can help keep your teeth whiter. How? It’s because these veggies are abrasive and can help remove stains from the surface of the teeth. They also help produce saliva, which also helps to minimize staining.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
As far as natural teeth whitening goes, this is a proven, effective method. Just mix minimal amounts of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste and use it to brush your teeth. The hydrogen peroxide kills germs and keeps the mouth clean, while the baking soda works to scrub any staining off of the teeth.
Change Your Toothbrush Every 3 Months
Most people only change their toothbrush out when they get a new one from their dentist at their six-month cleaning. This is a mistake – toothbrushes should be swapped out at least once every three months. Why? Because this is normally about the time that bristles bend and wear down. Once that happens, your teeth aren’t being cleaned like they should.
Brush, Brush, Brush
Although this might be a tad inconvenient, one of the best ways to ensure that your teeth stay white is to brush them after every meal. Drinks like coffee, tea and red wine can stain the teeth, and foods that are high in sugar can also do damage to their appearance, however regular brushing can help offset some of these issues.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is commonly used to absorb toxins that have been ingested by the body – but it also works to remove toxins from the mouth and get rid of stains. So while this method may sound a little strange, and while it will surely turn your mouth black until you rinse, brushing with activated charcoal provides highly satisfying results.
