A bright, white smile contributes to a positive self-image and helps you make a great first impression, yet studies show that only 44% of men brush their teeth the recommended twice daily, and most brush for only 30 seconds.
A complete and effective oral hygiene routine involves brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing, and visiting the dentist for biannual checkups. Making the right lifestyle and nutritional choices are also important for preventing oral health problems and maintaining an attractive smile.
If you’re dissatisfied with the whiteness of your teeth, you may consider teeth whitening treatment. To achieve a brighter, healthier set of pearly whites, you can try oil pulling, turmeric, baking soda, and other natural approaches.
The Foods You Choose Can Stain Your Smile or Help it Sparkle
Foods and drinks, such as coffee, wine, and berries, can leave stains on your teeth over time. Tobacco use and medications like tetracycline also diminish the brightness of your smile. To maintain a brighter smile, avoid substances that can leave stains on your teeth, or drink water to rinse your mouth out after consuming highly pigmented foods and beverages.
On the other hand, foods like strawberries work as a natural astringent to remove discoloration on the surfaces of your teeth. Crunchy fruits and vegetables also help whiten your smile by stimulating saliva production to wash away bacteria and food debris.
Oil Pulling Can Bolster Your Oral Hygiene Efforts
If you’re looking for a natural, alternative approach to improving the health and appearance of your teeth, consider oil pulling. This practice was developed over 3,000 years ago, and can remove harmful bacteria from the mouth. Since the purpose of oil pulling is to kill plaque-causing bacteria, the type of oil you choose makes a difference.
Coconut oil is considered most effective for oil pulling, as it contains lauric acid, which is a powerful antimicrobial. You can also use the coconut oil to dab on dry, cracked lips, helping your smile look even better. A brighter, whiter smile contributes to a more youthful appearance; to make sure your skin complements your vibrant new smile, you can also use coconut oil to diminish any fine lines and wrinkles forming around your mouth.
To oil pull effectively, simply swish about a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for about 20 minutes. This prevents gingivitis, helps teeth remineralize and gives you better breath.
Use Turmeric and Baking Soda For Brighter Teeth and Healthier Gums
Turmeric is a plant that is ground up and often used as a spice in cooking and for its medicinal properties. Due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can help reduce swelling in the gums associated with periodontal disease.
Turmeric has also been known to reduce the appearance of scars and dark spots on the skin, and its ability to lighten and brighten may work on teeth as well. By combining turmeric with baking soda and coconut oil, you can make a natural toothpaste that prevents gingivitis and helps lift stains.
Turmeric has also been known to reduce the appearance of scars and dark spots on the skin, and its ability to lighten and brighten may work on teeth as well. By combining turmeric with baking soda and coconut oil, you can make a natural toothpaste that prevents gingivitis and helps lift stains.
Whitening your teeth can be an easy way to boost your confidence. By taking steps each day to protect your teeth and gums, you can enjoy the healthy, attractive smile you deserve. In addition to brushing and flossing, you can explore natural treatments to achieve a truly dazzling smile.
