Temporary tooth sensitivity is usually the most commonly experienced side effect of teeth whitening. Others include gum and mouth irritation because of the chemical used to whiten teeth.

If a dentist does whitening, the proper measures will be applied to prevent gum irritation or at least make it minimal.

Most people think teeth should be perfectly spotless because they believe the pearly teeth they see in advertisements or marketing campaigns. One should value their teeth’s health more than cosmetic appearances.

Factors that can lead to teeth yellowing include:

Genetic conditions

Use of medications like tetracycline

Old age

Habits like drinking coffee and smoking

One should consider their budget before seeking teeth whitening treatment. Whitening options like mouthwashes and toothpaste are cheap but have milder whitening effects.

If one has veneers or dental implants, teeth whitening isn’t an option because it only works for natural teeth.

Anyone who feels the need to get teeth whitening treatment should consult a dentist to find out more about the best whitening options. It’s also important to read instructions carefully before using teeth whitening products.

There are ways to naturally whiten teeth at home using products readily available at the grocery store. The following is how one can have whiter teeth without using chemicals.

Brush Using Baking Soda

Baking soda whitens teeth, and that’s why it’s a major ingredient in toothpaste. It has abrasive properties; therefore, it can remove stains on teeth.

Although baking soda may not whiten teeth after a single use, one should start seeing changes over time.

Oil Pulling

This technique removes toxins and improves oral hygiene. It involves swishing oil around the mouth, eliminating bacteria that can cause teeth to turn yellow.

Coconut oil is an excellent option for oil pulling as it tastes good and has numerous health benefits.

Daily oil pulling can help reduce mouth bacteria and control gingivitis and plaque.

Eating Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables have many benefits, and one of them is maintaining healthy teeth. Crunchy fruits and vegetables rub plaque, although they should not be used as a substitute for brushing.

Some fruits with teeth-whitening benefits include pineapples and strawberries. Strawberry and baking soda solution or mixture is a great natural teeth-whitening remedy.

Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide helps kill bacteria in the mouth. Because of its ability to destroy bacteria, hydrogen peroxide is also used in disinfecting wounds.

Many teeth-whitening products also contain hydrogen peroxide.

While brushing with hydrogen peroxide can whiten teeth, one should use heavily diluted solutions to avoid tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.

Brushing and Flossing Helps

Regularly brushing and flossing teeth reduces bacteria in the mouth, allowing teeth to stay white. Toothpaste removes stains on teeth, while flossing eliminates bacteria that would otherwise cause plaque.

Other substances like apple cider vinegar, activated charcoal, and kaolin clay can whiten teeth. Some of these may, however, not be very effective.

There are a few things one can do to prevent stains from forming on teeth, including:

Limiting very sugary foods and beverages like soda and coffee.

Avoiding smoking.

Eating a calcium-rich diet.

Foods like broccoli, cheese, and milk are all rich in calcium.

Other substances like apple cider vinegar, activated charcoal, and kaolin clay can whiten teeth. Some of these may, however, not be very effective.