Teeth whitening has experienced a huge growth in popularity in recent years. You can’t open a magazine or look at social media without seeing countless celebrities with perfectly white and straight teeth. A dazzling set of pearly whites is considered serious social currency, and we’re all looking for new and easier ways to achieve this look. Whitening toothpaste, mouthwashes and whitening strips are available from every store, and we’re all spending more and more on them every year. Here are amazing home remedies for natural teeth whitening.

Teeth Whitening: Is It Safe? And What Are The Natural Teeth Whitening Alternatives?

How was modern teeth whitening discovered?

Teeth whitening as a cosmetic procedure is a relatively new procedure and became popular in the 1980s. It was first discovered by accident when dentists would use peroxide gel as an antiseptic treatment for the gums. They soon learned that a side-effect of this method is that it whitens the teeth. Dentists then developed trays to allow for the more efficient application of the peroxide gel. The mass marketing of teeth whitening products followed soon after.

Is it safe?

When administered by a registered dental practitioner, it is very safe. However, there has been a rise in as a result of unlicensed individuals carrying out the procedure. The good news is, the industry is cracking down on unlicensed individuals and there has been a rise in prosecutions. Before undergoing a teeth whitening programme, always check that the individual carrying out the treatment is licensed by checking with the General Dental Council.

What are the natural teeth whitening alternatives

Alongside the commercial strand, people have been looking for new and more inventive ways to natural teeth whitening. There are enough horror stories of chemical-burnt gums, shooting pains and increased sensitivity leading to cosmetic surgery claims to make anyone look for a natural teeth whitening, safer alternative to cosmetic teeth whitening. Not to mention, the price tag associated with laser teeth whitening is enough to make your eyes water. There are natural teeth whitening methods for achieving whiter teeth that don’t require any chemicals or messy dental procedures.

 

Baking Soda for natural teeth whitening

This is perhaps the most popular of all the natural methods. Baking soda is easily available and is well-known for its stain removing properties. When mixed with water, it bubbles up as it releases oxygen. This action, combined with the lightly abrasive properties of baking soda helps to remove surface stains from the teeth with minimal effort. This is why baking soda is often a key ingredient in many teeth whitening toothpaste.

 

Activated Charcoal for teeth

Similar to baking soda, activated charcoal may be messy to apply, but the results are very impressive. It is often used as natural teeth whitening alternative to fluoride in many natural products and can be used on its own to give your teeth a deep clean and polish. It’s highly absorbent properties make it perfect for lifting and removing stains.

 

Coconut oil for teeth whitening

The healthy cooking oil is enjoying its five minutes of fame, and it can also be used to whiten teeth. After melting the oil in your mouth, you basically swish it around your mouth and ‘pull’ it through your teeth for about 5-10 minutes per day. Although this won’t whiten the teeth, coconut oil contains lauric acid which can help to rid your teeth of the bacteria in your mouth that causes yellow staining. This method of natural teeth whitening isn’t suitable for young children, as there is a risk of swallowing or choking on the oil.

 

Turmeric- natural teeth whitening

Although you may be wary of this method, as turmeric is famous for turning everything it touches a vibrant shade of yellow, it can be very effective for natural teeth whitening whitening. Not only this, it also offers antibiotic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory benefits that will help keep your gums in good shape.

 

Manuka honey

Although not strictly for teeth whitening, manuka honey has been proven to be just as effective at ridding your mouth of bacteria as a chemical mouthwash. So, eating manuka honey in moderation could help to keep cavities and gum disease at bay, or it can be used as a mouthwash after brushing.

 

Whether you’re looking to whiten your teeth or just improve your overall dental hygiene, there are many natural teeth whitening methods available. While chemical teeth whitening might offer more immediate results, it is not without its risks, and it could lead to irreparable damage to your teeth and gums if it isn’t done by a trained professional. If you want to avoid the risks, experiment with a few natural teeth whitening methods and decide which method works best for you. If you are looking for natural relief from dental pain, there are also a lot of methods available.

 

Author Bio

Rebecca Harper is a freelance writer living in London. Since studying English at university, she pursued a career in journalism with a focus on health, beauty and lifestyle.