Tooth whitening (or bleaching) lightens the color of teeth. Stains are caused by chromogens that are either inside the tooth (intrinsic) or on it (extrinsic). Chromogens can be bleached with hydrogen peroxide which reacts with them to make them lighter.
Be sure to follow directions when using teeth whitening West Columbia SC strips or gels. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common side effects.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is a practice that involves swishing a small amount of oil in your mouth for 20 minutes. It is an ancient Ayurvedic practice and it has recently gained popularity as a way to improve oral health. It is thought that swishing oils like coconut, sesame and sunflower reduce bacteria in the mouth which improves gum health and prevents dental decay.
Some claim that it can also whiten teeth, but there is little scientific evidence to support this. Adding to this, there is no evidence that oil pulling draws toxins from the body as some claim.
What is known however is that oil pulling can reduce bad breath. This is because the microbes that cause it are killed by the antimicrobial properties of the oils used. However, brushing and flossing remain the best ways to keep your teeth healthy. They should be combined with regular professional dental care to maintain a bright and healthy smile.
Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a common household item that has many uses. It is used to help baked goods rise, as an antacid to treat indigestion, and as an ingredient in toothpaste. Its abrasive texture helps remove surface stains from teeth and is an effective tooth whitener when mixed with water to form a paste and applied to the toothbrush.
It also reduces bacteria in the mouth, which can cause gum disease and dental decay. It is also useful in preventing and treating mouth ulcers, or canker sores.
However, if it is not applied gently, baking soda can damage the enamel that coats your teeth. Excessive use of baking soda can erode it, leaving your teeth exposed to the acids in plaque and susceptible to tooth sensitivity. It can also weaken or soften the glue used in braces and permanent dental fittings, so it should not be used by anyone with these appliances.
Bromelain or Papain
There are a variety of foods that can stain teeth. These include dark sodas, juices, wine and coffee. These stains can be removed with natural ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can be brushed on the teeth for a few minutes twice a week. However, it is recommended to brush with this solution sparingly, as prolonged exposure can increase tooth sensitivity.
Another option is to eat more foods that contain lightening properties. Some foods that may help are pineapple and papaya, which contain enzymes called bromelains and proteolytic acid that dissolve protein molecules on the surface of the teeth. This can prevent staining and whiten the teeth.
In one study, an experimental natural bleaching gel containing papain and ficin, without carbamide peroxide, was tested. The whitening gels were effective in reducing the color of the enamel surfaces, promoting a greater color change than the positive control (carbamide peroxide-based). These results were similar to those obtained with commercial carbamide peroxide bleaching gels, but the whitening gels presented less damage in the enamel surface and cell viability.
Fruits and Vegetables
The foods we eat and drink play an important role in our oral health. Certain foods like tea, coffee, red wine and soda can stain teeth and wear down enamel. Dark fruits and vegetables can also contribute to discoloration.
Eating a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables is good for your mouth and your teeth. They are high in fiber and water, which can help rinse away food particles and bacteria. Crunchy vegetables, such as carrots and broccoli, act as a natural tooth scrub. Strawberries contain malic acid, which acts as a natural whitener to remove surface stains, and pineapples have the enzyme bromelain that is often found in teeth whitening West Columbia SC toothpastes.
Avoiding foods and drinks that can stain teeth, like coffee, tea, red wine, soda and cola, is essential. It is also beneficial to chew sugar-free gum after eating, to stimulate saliva production and help wash away any lingering debris. Regular brushing and flossing are key to maintaining a beautiful, bright smile.
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