The Best Natural Ingredients for Teeth Whitening: Facts and Myths

Many people turn to natural teeth whiteners to achieve brighter smiles, believing them to be the safest and most effective options. However, not all natural remedies live up to their promises; some might even pose risks to dental health. In this article, we will explore the best natural ingredients for teeth whitening, shedding light on their true effectiveness and what you need to know before incorporating them into your oral care routine.

Let’s separate fact from fiction and ensure you make informed decisions for a dazzling smile.

Baking Soda

Renowned for its mild abrasive properties, baking soda removes surface stains and polishes teeth without harming the enamel.¹ Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Brush your teeth with the paste in gentle circles for about a minute. Spit out the paste and rinse your mouth thoroughly until your teeth feel clean and shiny. Brushing with baking soda can be unappealing due to its taste and gritty texture. It offers less dramatic whitening and lacks fluoride, essential for cavity protection. Adding peppermint oil can improve taste, and commercial toothpastes with baking soda may provide a better experience.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil’s natural antibacterial properties make oil pulling a great way to reduce plaque buildup and whiten teeth over time.² To practice oil pulling, place a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for 15–20 minutes, pushing and pulling it between your teeth. Spit the oil into the trash to avoid clogging pipes, then brush your teeth.

Activated Charcoal

This natural detoxifier binds to impurities on teeth, helping to lift stains and brighten smiles. Before trying charcoal toothpaste, consult your dentist and be aware of the risks, especially with long-term use. Initially, using activated charcoal toothpaste may make your teeth appear whiter. However, after continued use, charcoal toothpaste can thin enamel, making teeth appear yellow due to exposed dentin, and increase surface roughness, which can attract bacteria and raise the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, charcoal powder is generally much more abrasive than regular toothpaste and unsuitable for children due to their developing teeth.³

Hydrogen Peroxide

Often used in natural teeth whitening products, hydrogen peroxide breaks down stains and safely whitens teeth.⁴ For best results, brush with a baking soda and hydrogen peroxide mix for 1–2 minutes twice daily for a week, but only occasionally. It may increase tooth sensitivity, so avoid long-term use or if you have sensitive teeth. Be aware that hydrogen peroxide can corrode your teeth.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar’s acidic properties can help remove stains and whiten teeth when used sparingly.⁵ Adding lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to baking soda for whitening isn’t recommended, as their acidity can damage enamel and increase cavity risk.

Strawberries

The malic acid in strawberries acts as a natural astringent, removing surface stains and whitening your teeth.⁶ For whiter teeth, puree a strawberry, mix with ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and apply with a toothbrush. Let sit for five minutes, then brush with regular toothpaste.

Turmeric

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can also help reduce stains and improve oral health when used as a toothpaste ingredient.⁷ Though turmeric’s teeth-whitening abilities lack scientific study, it offers significant oral health benefits. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties; it can prevent gingivitis, reduce plaque, and relieve dental pain. Studies also suggest it may treat periodontitis and help prevent oral cancers.

How to Whiten Your Teeth Up to 6 Shades Naturally

Getting rid of stubborn stains can be challenging, especially with the many available products. This mouth detox in less than 16 minutes can achieve whiter teeth up to 6 shades. Watch this video on how mouth detox works.

Always seek medical advice or consult your dentist before starting any oral care regimen, especially if you are undergoing treatment. Edanostore.com relies on reader support. Shopping via our links earns us affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue providing quality content and sourcing top-tier products for your optimal health and well-being.

Photo by Lesly Juarez