Natural Teeth Whitening Remedies: Do They Work?
Natural Teeth Whitening Remedies at Solterra Dentistry
Everyone wants a bright, white smile, but not everyone wants to use harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. You may be tempted to try natural teeth whitening remedies that you find online, but do they work? Dr. Manov and his dental team at Solterra Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ, are here to help you understand what works, what doesn't, and what might harm your teeth.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
Before we delve into remedies, let's talk about why teeth become yellow or stained in the first place. Some common causes are:
- Aging
- Eating dark-colored foods (like berries)
- Drinking dark-colored beverages (like coffee or red wine)
- Smoking
Natural Whitening Remedies
Now, let's examine some of the most popular natural teeth-whitening remedies and discuss whether they really work.
Baking Soda
One of the most common remedies is brushing your teeth with baking soda. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can scrub away surface stains. However, it's important to note that while baking soda can help remove stains, it does not whiten your teeth.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient dental technique that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (usually coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. The idea is that the oil will pull out bacteria and stains from your teeth. While there's no harm in trying oil pulling, there is no scientific evidence that it whitens teeth.
Fruit Peels
Another popular remedy is rubbing the inside of an orange or banana peel on your teeth. The idea is that the peel contains compounds that can help to whiten teeth. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The acid in fruit peels can damage your enamel.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Phoenix, AZ
While natural remedies can help to remove surface stains, they can't change the natural color of your teeth. For that, you'll need professional teeth whitening. Dr. Manov and his team at Solterra Dentistry offer professional teeth whitening that can lighten your teeth by several shades.
It's tempting to try natural remedies for teeth whitening, but the truth is that most of them don't work, and some can even be harmful. If you want a whiter, brighter smile, your best bet is to visit a professional like Dr. Manov and his team at Solterra Dentistry. They can provide safe and effective teeth whitening options that give you the smile you've always wanted. Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment today with the dental experts you deserve!