When it comes to whitening dull teeth, most people assume teeth whitening at the dentist’s office or whitening the teeth with an over-the-counter product at the store are the only options. There is plenty of confusion as to the most effective approach to whiten dull teeth.
In reality, there are multiple options and preferences for people to choose from. Below, we delve into five unique ways to lighten the color of dull teeth.
1. Whiten teeth with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a common house hold product and is even found in many toothpaste brands. Ask dentists about using baking soda to whiten dull teeth and you will likely receive mixed responses, some in favor of this approach and others against it. Some argue baking soda is too abrasive for everyday use in the mouth. However, scientists are adamant this soft product is acceptable for teeth whitening.
Ask people in the know about baking soda and you will find it has low abrasiveness. Apply baking soda in a gentle manner to your front teeth, allow it to convert from powder to the solution as it mixes with your saliva and it will gradually reduce staining. Focus on the front teeth to maximize the whitening effect. Be aware of possible side effects, with continual use, you could damage your enamel that coats your teeth. Read more from Colgate, for more information about teeth whitening with baking soda.
2. Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
Oil pulling is a ancient technique that has been commonly practiced in southern Asia and India. Oil pulling decreases gingivitis and tooth decay while some other whitening strategies actually pose the threat of damaging tooth enamel. The only potential negative to oil pulling is the time investment. It takes around 20 minutes of swishing the oil in your mouth to produce results.
- Swish gently. Slow down if your jaw starts aching after five minutes. You’re swishing too hard!
- Do not swallow the oil while swishing. You likely have too much oil in your mouth if you find it hard not to swish. Spit it out and try again with a smaller amount.
- Once you have finished pulling, spit the solution into the trash. Do not discard the oil in the sink because over time the oil may build up and clog the pipes.
- Be sure to rinse with water first before consuming a beverage.
Oil pulling replicates the activity in your vehicle’s engine. The oil used in your vehicle exits while the clean oil remains for continued functionality. Oil pulling replicates this process to mitigate gum disease and tooth decay. You should know that the American Dental Association (ADA) notes that there is not enough scientific evidence to prove oil pulling is beneficial to your oral health at all. Read more about oil pulling in DentistryIQ.
3. Eating more fruit whitens your smile
While it might seem a bit odd that consuming fruit whitens dull teeth, it really works. Apples are especially helpful in cleaning teeth. Hollywood celebrities are adamant mashing up strawberries and spreading them along the teeth whitens their hue. Some chew on orange peels or lemon peels. Eating tart fruits such as oranges, grapefruit and pineapples may cause the mouth to produce more saliva, which washes teeth clean naturally.
4. Drink Apple cider
People who follow health trends are well aware of the fact that apple cider vinegar seems to work for just about every other body ailment. If you are looking to whiten dull teeth, apply apple cider vinegar on a daily basis. Use this teeth whitening method for a full month and you will gradually notice results. Apple cider vinegar is surprisingly effective at eliminating stains from nicotine, red wine, coffee, tea, etc.
Be aware, Apple cider vinegar is very acidic, with a pH of 3.075, and using too much can damage the tooth enamel, which starts to erode at a pH of 5.5. Enamel erosion will actually make the tooth surfaces appear darker as the shiny white outer layer breaks down. When the protective outer enamel becomes weakened from too much acidity, it can lead to tooth sensitivity.
To avoid damaging the enamel, be sure to dilute the vinegar before it comes in contact with the teeth. After rinsing, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing teeth. Even diluted, the vinegar can be abrasive, and applying a rough toothbrush to the tooth’s enamel surfaces right away can do more harm than good.
With careful use, apple cider vinegar may be a smart option for organic tooth whitening. As with any product, natural or manufactured, consult a health professional before use and use in moderation for the greatest benefit with minimal risk.
5. Clean teeth with Bentonite Clay
Clay is minimally abrasive, incredibly soft and capable of polishing better than most materials. White bentonite clay is optimal for removing stains. A mixture of bentonite clay and water, mixed into a paste, can help whiten your teeth. Bentonite clay has an great source of calcium, magnesium, and silica, which are all necessary for healthy enamel. The clay mixes with saliva and gets right to work beautifying the teeth. Some patients have even found success mixing baking soda and clay powder for a thorough mouth clean.
Request a teeth whitening appointment in our Victorville dentist office here: Dental Appointment