Dentistry: It's More Than Drilling and Filling

If your teeth are not as white as you wish them to be, there are several methods to use in removing surface stains and brightening the appearance of your teeth. Avoiding foods that stain, such as coffee, tea, and fruit juices and avoiding smoking cigarettes can be a help in avoiding staining, but what happens if the damage is already done? Give some of the following methods a try in removing surface stains from your teeth so you have a white, bright smile. Each of these methods uses materials you may already have in your kitchen!

Coconut Oil

Using coconut oil to rinse your mouth will help your teeth lose some of the staining from their surfaces. Place about a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around in the same way as you would a mouthwash. Keeping it in your mouth for several minutes will help absorb minerals from within your mouth and from your teeth. This will help brighten them after just one use.

Strawberries

Make a pulp from a few strawberries by using a fork to mash them up. Strawberries are high in malic acid, which is one of the main ingredients used in whitening toothpastes. Tilt your head back and place the strawberry pulp directly on the front of the teeth affected by staining. Leave it in place for a few minutes, remove and rinse.

Baking Soda

Make a toothpaste from baking soda and water. Place a tablespoon or two of baking soda in a small bowl or coffee mug and add water a teaspoon at a time until it reaches the consistency you prefer. Mix well and place directly on your toothbrush. Brush your teeth with the mixture for up to a minute. Limit this procedure to once a week as baking soda is known to wear away the enamel of teeth if overused.

Fruit Peels

Using the inside of a banana or orange peel can help remove staining from your teeth on the spot. Simply rub the peel on areas you feel need a pick-me-up. Do this several times a week, as there are no ill events from the process.

Crushed Walnuts

Remove the shell from a walnut and crush the nut into fine particles by using a blender or by smashing it with a heavy item. Rub these particles directly on your teeth using your fingers. Walnuts will naturally ward off yellowing of the teeth and will give your teeth a healthy, white appearance. Make sure you do not have any shell remnants in the crushed pieces, as they can damage the enamel on your teeth.

If you have any questions about whitening your teeth, contact a dentist like Daniel Savini DDS.