Taking care of your mouth isn’t just about keeping your teeth functional and clean. For many people, it’s also important to make their smiles bright with white teeth. Perhaps that’s why 35.8 million people in the United States used teeth whitening products in 2021. Teeth whitening is so popular that experts project it to become a $3 billion industry by 2028.
While many people want a more confident smile, some are understandably worried about the safety of teeth whitening products. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can contain many chemicals that some people are not comfortable putting in their bodies. If you find yourself wanting white teeth but not wanting to take risks with your health, check out these natural teeth whitening options.
Baking Soda for Naturally White Teeth
Baking soda is a common ingredient in many whitening tubes of toothpaste, and for good reason. Many studies have shown that brushing with baking soda is more effective at removing yellow stains on teeth than brushing with other kinds of toothpaste. Furthermore, baking soda is effective in removing plaque and stopping bacteria from growing.
If you want to try this method, you can either purchase toothpaste that contains baking soda or you can use baking soda itself in addition to your favorite toothpaste. Make a paste with baking soda and water, then brush as normal.
Hydrogen Peroxide for Teeth Whitening
Hydrogen peroxide is another household ingredient that has been proven to remove stains. This natural antiseptic has long been used as first aid for killing bacteria. Many people have used it to remove stains from clothes, and carpets as well.
Studies have found that hydrogen peroxide is also safe and effective in whitening teeth. In fact, it’s the active ingredient in many whitening products. However, it’s important to take caution when using hydrogen peroxide in this way. It’s safe when diluted, but large amounts can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. It’s best to ask a dentist or doctor for recommendations before trying this tooth whitening solution.
Prevent Food Stains Before They Begin
Prevention is the best medicine, and that’s the case with teeth whitening as well. The best thing you can do to keep your smile bright is to avoid stains in the first place. If you want to indulge in staining drinks, try using a straw.
Furthermore, make sure to practice excellent dental hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes, floss at least once a day, and attend your annual dental checkups. Keep in mind that while all of these practices can help prevent some discoloration, not all yellowing of the teeth is preventable. Genetics and age play a role in the color of our teeth.
Talk to Your Dentist About Safe Teeth Whitening Options
While these methods can help keep your teeth white naturally, some people find that they do not provide the results they were hoping for. However, over-the-counter teeth whitening strips and other products may be worrisome.
If you find yourself in that situation, consider talking to your trusted dentist about your options. Dentists can prescribe teeth whitening solutions that are both safe and effective.
At Koppelman Dental, we are proud to offer safe teeth whitening in Manhattan, NY. Whether you prefer to complete the treatment in your home or in our office, we can guide you along the way. Our solutions are personalized to your needs, and we are happy to answer any questions you have about the safety of our products. Contact us today to learn more.