3 ways to naturally whiten your teeth
Dental teeth whitening treatments typically cost upwards of $300. Although they guarantee a whiter pearly white when you smile, there are ways you can get a similar affect at home if you’re willing to put in the work. Here are three, simple solutions for whiter and brighter teeth.
1. Coconut oil rinse
Rinsing your mouth with coconut oil is actually a unique, old, remedy. The lauric acid in coconut oil can rid your teeth of bacteria found in plaque that can make them yellow. It is also supposed to promote gum health, and help keep your breath fresh.
You will need: About a tablespoon of coconut oil
Method:
1. In the morning, before you brush your teeth, scoop out a tablespoon of coconut oil. Let it soften
2. Swish the oil through and around your teeth for 10 to 15 minutes. Spit it out, rinse with water, and brush your teeth.
2. Baking soda and lemon juice
We already know that baking soda has many uses, including getting glowing skin and shiny hair.
So it’s no surprise it works on teeth as well. Sodium bicarbonate (its official name) is mildly abrasive; gently scrubbing away surface stains to return teeth to a whiter shade.
You will need: Several teaspoons of baking soda; enough lemon juice or water to form a paste; and a toothbrush
Method:
1. Mix several teaspoons of baking soda with enough fresh lemon juice (or water) to make a paste.
2. Using a paper towel, wipe any extra saliva off your teeth with a paper towel.
3. Put a good amount of the paste onto your toothbrush and apply in a soft, coating motion.
4. Leave the paste on for 1 minute, then rinse, so as to avoid the acid effecting enamel.
3. Strawberry and salt scrub
Strawberries are high in Vitamin C, which can help break down plaque that is causing your teeth to look yellow. The salt acts as an abrasive portion of the paste, physically scrubbing away stain-causing gunk.
You will need: 1 to 3 large strawberries; a pinch of seat salt; and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda (optional).
Method:
1. Mash the berries into a pulp, and add a pinch of sea salt.
2. Using a paper towel, wipe any extra saliva off your teeth with a paper towel.
3. Apply a generous amount of the mixture to a toothbrush and apply.
4. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then rinse. Do this nightly for best results.
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