Natural teeth whitening can be achieved through various methods from the past to the present. In addition to natural methods, there are also various teeth whitening procedures performed in clinics.
Teeth whitening is generally done for aesthetic reasons due to cosmetic concerns. White teeth are important both for health and aesthetics. Changes in the color of teeth can affect individuals' confidence.
Paying attention to oral hygiene is the best way to prevent and reduce discoloration. At-home natural teeth whitening methods are particularly effective for surface stains. However, frequent application of these methods can lead to enamel erosion and subsequent more intense color changes. Let's explore these practices together!
Natural Teeth Whitening Methods
Natural teeth whitening can be done with lemon, baking soda, and various fruits. These applications are commonly used in society but are not medically proven, so their benefits or harms may vary from person to person. The most accurate solution for dental problems is to consult dentists and maintain oral hygiene to preserve dental health.
Here are the most well-known natural teeth whitening methods:
- Baking Soda and Lemon
- Natural Toothpaste
- Banana Peel
- Laurel Leaf
- Strawberry
- Sage Tea
- Carrot
- Salt
Natural teeth whitening methods can be listed in this way. Now, let's take a closer look at these items on the list...
1- Baking Soda and Lemon
When it comes to natural teeth whitening, baking soda and lemon are the first things that come to mind. Brushing your teeth with a mixture of baking soda and lemon reduces the yellowness on your teeth. However, since the lemon used in this process is acidic, it should be avoided in regular use.
2- Natural Toothpaste
Brushing your teeth twice a day with natural toothpaste removes residues from your teeth. This helps prevent the problem of discoloration on the teeth, and over time, your teeth become whiter and shinier.
3- Banana Peel
Rubbing your teeth with a banana peel after brushing is good for both dental health and teeth whitening. It has a tartar-cleaning effect with its potassium content. After the rubbing process, you need to brush your teeth again with a clean toothbrush.
4- Laurel Leaf
Laurel leaf is a very beneficial plant. Putting laurel leaves in the water you drink is beneficial for both your body and your teeth.
5- Strawberry
Fruits naturally contain various acids, and these acids can eliminate layers on the teeth. Therefore, it is recommended for children, before they start brushing their teeth, to eat plenty of fruits to maintain dental health. Especially malic acid found in strawberries is very effective on the layers on the teeth. Eating plenty of strawberries is one of the most natural teeth whitening methods.
6- Sage Tea
Regular consumption of sage tea is beneficial in many ways. One of its benefits is its teeth-whitening effect. You can consume sage tea directly or add a small amount to your toothpaste during brushing. It is said that this practice has a positive effect on teeth whitening over time.
7- Carrot
Consuming carrots frequently or massaging teeth with sliced carrots is said to have a positive effect on teeth whitening. The acids in carrots help remove layers on your teeth.
8- Salt
It is said that brushing teeth with table salt whitens teeth and kills bacteria in the mouth. After brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste, you can brush your teeth with salt by dipping a clean toothbrush into it. However, this application can also harm your teeth, and it is recommended to avoid frequent use.
Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow?
It may be more beneficial to learn why teeth turn yellow before teeth whitening procedures. This way, you can prevent discoloration on your teeth.
So, why do teeth turn yellow?
- Excessive smoking,
- Inadequate brushing of teeth,
- Excessive consumption of tea, coffee,
- Aging-related thinning of tooth enamel,
- Sensitivity of the enamel layer due to dry mouth,
- Genetic factors,
- Certain medications,
- Teeth grinding,
- High sugar consumption,
- Lastly, some of the natural teeth whitening methods, especially those containing acids, can create scratches on the teeth and damage the enamel. This can lead to irreversible color changes in the teeth over time.
The reasons for teeth yellowing are generally listed in this way. By paying attention to these factors, you can prevent discoloration on your teeth.
How to Prevent Teeth Yellowing?
Teeth yellowing generally occurs due to the thinning of tooth enamel and the loss of the previous shine of the teeth. There are many different reasons for teeth yellowing. By learning about them and paying attention to dental hygiene, you can prevent yellowing.
How to Prevent Teeth Yellowing:
- Consuming beverages, especially caffeinated and acidic ones, with a straw helps protect the teeth.
- Brushing your teeth with soft-bristled brushes, twice a day, and slowly, prevents teeth yellowing.
- Regularly cleaning the layers between your teeth can prevent yellowing or decay.
- Minimizing the consumption of tea, coffee, and cigarettes also prevents teeth yellowing.
Clinic Teeth Whitening
In addition to natural teeth whitening methods, there are also teeth whitening procedures performed by expert dentists. These procedures are much safer since they are done under the control of a dentist. Procedures performed in the clinic have advantages in terms of achieving quick results and durability.