Get set for brighter, healthier looking teeth without breaking the bank with these 5 amazing natural whitening treatments.
1. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Paste
A great natural teeth whitener, baking soda has a gritty texture that gently scrubs away stains, leaving your teeth a whiter shade. It is also alkaline, which balances out the PH in your mouth and reduces the acidity of the lemon juice. Acid from certain food and drinks breaks down enamel and makes them look yellow in color. The lemon juice acts as a natural bleach with the baking soda, and many have confirmed the whitening effects of this simple concoction!
All you need is a few teaspoons of baking soda and enough lemon juice to make a paste. Mix together and apply to your teeth with a toothbrush. Leave the paste on for one minute, then rinse out for beautiful natural whiteness.
2. Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut oil is one of nature’s most useful ingredients, and it has even been shown to whiten teeth. Lauric acid found in coconut oil can rid your teeth of the bacteria in plaque and many have attested to the whitening results of “oil pulling.” Its antimicrobial properties are also great for your gum health.
Before you brush in the morning, simply place a spoonful of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it between your teeth for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also add a few drops to your toothbrush and brush it on if you prefer. Quick, easy and great for all-round oral health!
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
If used regularly, apple cider vinegar has been proven to naturally whiten teeth. Working as a mouth and gum cleaner, it effectively removes stubborn discoloration such as coffee and nicotine stains.
Swish some apple cider vinegar around your mouth and through your teeth for a smile that can rival a professional clean! Make sure to rinse out afterward and use daily for full effect.
4. Strawberries, Salt & Baking Soda
Several celebrities have been known to use this combination for natural teeth whitening effects, including Tyra Banks and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Strawberries, which are high in Vitamin C, can break down the plaque that causes discoloration of the teeth. They also contain malic acid which helps to remove surface stains. Combined with salt and baking soda it’s an effective scrub that can have instant whitening results.
Take 1 to 3 large strawberries and mash into a pulp. Add a pinch of sea salt some baking soda mix into a paste. Wipe off any excess saliva from your teeth. Using a toothbrush apply the paste, leave for 5 minutes before rinsing. Try this each night for gorgeous, fresh whites that will feel healthy and clean!
5.Activated charcoal
Over the past year, the surge in activated charcoal toothpaste has taken over the internet. Yes, it looks horrible but folks really claim that it works. We found this recipe on Ask the Dentist and have not tried it yet but it sure looks legit.
Activated charcoal toothpaste recipe:
2 tsp Activated Charcoal
3 tsp Calcium Carbonate
1 tsp Food Grade Bentonite Clay
2 1/2 tsp Xylitol (for flavor)
4 tsp Distilled Water
2 tsp Cold-Pressed Organic Coconut Oil (melted)
Steps:
1. Add activated charcoal, calcium carbonate, bentonite clay and xylitol in a bowl
2. Mix with a fork until well combined
3. Add water to form a paste
4. Next add coconut oil and blend with your fork until a smooth paste is formed
5. Store in a glass jar or refillable squeeze tube
Keep out only what you’ll use within 5-7 days and store the rest in the fridge. The Activated Charcoal Toothpaste is made from real food ingredients and therefore doesn’t contain any preservatives. Keeping it in the fridge will extend its shelf life, but don’t expect it to last more than a month. Use your senses to determine if you need to toss it and create a fresh batch. Also, the temperature and humidity of where you live (as well as your bathroom, where you store the paste) will determine how long the toothpaste lasts.
Well, that's all I have for now. Be sure to check out other great DIY tips and tricks and let us know what you think in the comments below.
