A brighter smile can give you that sparkly feeling when you get ready in the morning. Feeling like you have white, clean teeth will give you more confidence and will always help give a good first impression. We know that conventional tooth whitening products and over-cleaning with harsh products aren’t always wholly beneficial as they can make teeth sensitive, remove enamel and kill good bacteria.
So how can you whiten your teeth at home naturally?
Activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is similar to common charcoal, but is made especially for medicine. Producers of activated charcoal heat common charcoal in a gas that allows the charcoal to develop pores. These pores causes the activated charcoal absorb, or trap, chemicals.
Activated charcoal can help whiten your teeth by absorbing plaque and other substances that might cause stains.
To use it, wet a toothbrush and dip it into powered activated charcoal. Brush normally for 2-3 minutes. Then, sip some water and swish around your mouth thoroughly then spit. Make sure you rinse your mouth until your spit is clear.
Alternatively, we love this Sister & Co Raw Coconut and Activated Charcoal Tooth Whitening Polish. Use 2-3 times per week before brushing your teeth!
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural antibiotic which means it can clean teeth and help removing stains from the usual suspects like coffee and smoking.
ACV contains several compounds (enzymes, potassium, magnesium, etc.) which kill bad bacteria, but also supports good bacteria. The acid in ACV helps break down plaque and its pH helps remove stains.
Use ACV with care, though, because acid can remove the enamel on your teeth. This is dangerous because enamel doesn't grow back. You usually have to use ACV for about a month consistently before you notice a difference. Make sure that you brush your teeth again with regular toothpaste after brushing with ACV.
Lemon or orange peel
Citrus fruits (like lemon or orange) contain acid which can whiten teeth. Just by eating citrus fruits you can help remove stains from your teeth and whiten them. You could also try lemon essential oil or lemon/orange peel on your teeth. However, like ACV, be careful not to use any citrus products on your teeth too aggressively. Always brush your teeth with regular toothpaste afterwards and rinse well.
Coconut oil pulling
Coconut oil has endless uses (just about), including cleaning your teeth! It can help whiten your teeth naturally, and some people attest that it has whitened their teeth and helped make their smile brighter.
Put a dessert spoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around like mouthwash for 5-20 mins. Alternatively, you can dip your toothbrush in the oil and brush it on, or apply the oil to a clean cloth and rub it on your teeth.
Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties which means it can protect your gums as well.
Strawberries and other healthy food
Strawberries contain beneficial antioxidants which can help remove stains and whiten teeth. However, having a healthy diet in general can improve the health of your teeth. Other food that can help your gums and teeth stay strong and bright are sources of calcium, celery, nuts or foods high in magnesium and potassium (leafy green veg, apples or pears).While these are good to include in your everyday diet, you could also try mixing some of the food and substances we've spoken about earlier together to make a natural, homemade teeth whitener. Just be cautious with quantities and always seek medical advice before using!