The Truth Behind “Natural Whitening” Fads
It seems like there is a new headline nearly every week featuring someone who swears their teeth are whiter and brighter due to their natural home remedy for stain removal. These articles showcase the idea that whitening can be cheap and easy, if sometimes unpleasant. It can be tempting to consider trying for brighter, whiter teeth without investing time and money in in-office or at-home whitening under a dentist’s care. However, before you pin your hopes on one of these “natural whitening” methods, look at the truth behind some recent fads.
Fad 1: Oil Pulling
Oil pulling has been cropping up in headlines for months with claims of various potential health benefits. It is an ancient folk remedy in which a person swishes a tablespoon of edible oil, such as coconut, sunflower, olive, etc., in their mouth and between teeth for up to 20 minutes daily.
Despite the number of years, this practice has existed and the number of health issues it purports to treat, there is no evidence that oil pulling whitens teeth or improves health.
Fad 2: Fruits
Due to celebrity endorsement, some people have begun rubbing mashed strawberries on their teeth to achieve a whiter smile. Others use lemon or orange peels, while others tout the virtues of eating pineapple or swishing apple cider vinegar.
However, there is no science to support any of these claims. One recent study found that brushing with baking soda (known to have whitening effects on teeth) and strawberries did not whiten teeth. Even worse, the citric acids found in all these fruits and vinegar can harm the enamel on your teeth.
Fad 3: Hydrogen Peroxide
While it is true that many forms of in-office and over-the-counter teeth whitening use hydrogen peroxide, there is more to consider before opening a bottle. The hydrogen peroxide used in professional teeth whitening, whether in-office or at home, is mixed with other substances and provided in a form designed for teeth whitening.
Simply swishing from a bottle of hydrogen peroxide will have little or no effect on the whiteness of your teeth but may cause irritation to your gums and mouth and can be dangerous if accidentally ingested.
If you want whiter, brighter teeth, there are safe and effective ways to achieve your goal. Talk with our Shelby Township dentist to recommend what kind of whitening will be best for your needs. For more information about whitening, contact our office.
Timothy Roney & Associates
Email: team@drroneyandassociates.com
Phone: (586) 786-6060
Url: https://shelbycharterdentist.com/
5805 24 Mile Rd Suite C
Shelby Charter Township, MI 48316
