How to Whiten Teeth Naturally | Coconut Oil Pulling | Jtru
Having a smile you’re proud of is a big part of being confident and vibrant in our conversations and day to day interactions. If you’re always worried about the color of your teeth, it can hinder some of that confidence and hold you back. A lot of the time, that lack of confidence shows! If your teeth are more discolored than you’d like, there’s a few different things you can try at home before spending money on expensive treatments or possibly damaging the health of your teeth and gums with store bought whiteners.
Most of these options use simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, and are very inexpensive! Of course, don’t try anything without consulting your dentist first!
Coconut oil and baking soda! You probably already knew I was going to suggest baking soda. It’s widely known that baking soda is a mild abrasive and can work to gently whiten your teeth over time. A lot of tooth pastes already have this common ingredient in them! Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a teaspoon of coconut oil and you have yourself a cheap option for whitening your teeth. Plus, coconut oil has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties and can help kill bacteria that cause bad breath.
Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Here’s another mixture you can most likely go and mix up right now! Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 1 part baking soda and brush your teeth as normal. You can also just rinse your mouth out with diluted hydrogen peroxide. It works to kill bad breath germs, helps whiten teeth and can even help heal certain mouth sores and swollen gums.
Here’s a fruity one! You can crush up strawberries into a paste, and put them on a banana peel. Rub the banana peel on your teeth and work in the paste! The acid from the strawberries will work to whiten teeth and the minerals in the banana peel help as well. Use once a week for up to 7 minutes at a time! Be cautious with using treatments that utilize acid, as this can damage the enamel on your teeth and leave them more prone to discoloration.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another thing you can try to whiten your teeth at home. Always use raw apple cider vinegar in your treatments, the kind with “The Mother”, which has enzymes and friendly bacteria that fight bacteria that cause bad breath, and gently whiten teeth. Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar to 2 parts water and swish for 2 minutes. This is another method you don’t want to do too often, because of the acidic properties in ACV. Try this 1-2 times a month!
The number one way to keep your teeth from getting discolored is to practice healthy habits and brush twice a day. Avoid drinks that can stain your teeth like coffee and tea, and when you do have them, brush your teeth right after for 2 minutes! These DIY methods can help whiten your teeth at home, but of course don’t use them in place of these regular habits.
Coconut oil carries several health advantages, oral and otherwise. The absorbent properties of natural lipids can remove bacteria from the body. What’s more, oil pulling can be performed during other activities, such as taking a shower or bathing, which makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Coconut oil pulling is an ancient Indian folk remedy that dates back 3,000 years. The practice has recently become popular online. Reviews claim that it freshens the breath and whitens teeth. Let’s explore whether coconut oil can actually improve your oral health.
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What is oil pulling?
Oil pulling means using lipids such as sesame or coconut oil to cleanse the oral cavity. This has the aim of reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth. Most organisms that live there have the structure of a single cell. Fats adhere to them and make bacteria easier to flush out.
Coconut oil is considered the best choice, as it contains lauric acid. This is a natural antimicrobial agent, giving users the fastest results. It can also slow down the process of tooth decay formation.
How does coconut oil improve your mouth’s condition?
Coconut oil’s benefits, that have been confirmed by scientists, can cumulatively lead to better oral health. Have a look at what oil pulling can do for your mouth.
Coconut oil teeth whitening effects
Online reviews praise coconut oil pulling for its teeth whitening effects. This is not surprising, as coconut oil’s many properties help improve the way your mouth looks. It may not whiten your teeth per se, it rather leads to a healthier smile which is brighter by default.
The fact that coconut oil reduces bacteria and prevents cavities, means your teeth won’t suffer staining that comes with such issues. Caries in particular can cause yellow, brown, or gray spots on dentition.
Bacteria, periodontitis, and gingivitis may make teeth yellow. All these may also lead to gum recession, making discoloration even worse. Coconut oil, while fighting those conditions off, keeps your teeth pearly white.
How to use coconut oil for teeth?
Following the guide below will help you source many benefits from the ancient practice.
Consult with a dentist
Any dental solution, whether it be a home remedy or OTC products, should start with a professional consultation. Your dentist is the best person to advise how coconut oil pulling can benefit your mouth.
It may be that he or she first recommends in-office treatment, such as a teeth cleaning or SRP. This depends on the issues you are facing. Coconut oil pulling may then act as support to professional procedures.
Introduce coconut oil pulling gradually
Start by putting a tablespoon of oil into your mouth. Sip a little water if it’s more solid than liquid. Sit upright and breathe through your nose. At the beginning, try to swish it around in your mouth for about 5 minutes. You can extend the duration up to 15-20 as you continue this practice. This makes it easier to build up the habit.
Here are a couple of tips that can make it more comfortable and convenient:
Do not put too much oil into your mouth at first. It will be harder to keep it in your mouth, especially if you are just beginning.
Don’t swallow. It may make you nauseous.
Keep your face muscles relaxed.
Try to spit into a trash can when you're done, especially if you perform the treatment every day. Oil can clog up pipes pretty quickly.
Many patients quote best results when pulling oil on an empty stomach. There is no evidence, however, that this makes a difference. Incorporate the solution into your routine in a way that will make most sense for you.
Keep up proper oral hygiene
This technique should not replace your oral routine. When you are done, rinse your mouth and brush your teeth. You may want to invest in a separate brush to use right after pulling. The chances are, fatty cells may be left behind and it can make the toothbrush unpleasant in the long run.
You should also visit your dentist for a checkup at least once a year. A professional cleaning is recommended every 6 months. Those can prevent oral diseases as well as discoloration and staining.
In the age of Instagram, one thing I feel I'm always looking for is a whiter smile—whether that's through filtering my photos or a heavy-duty toothpaste. For years, I've heard from my naturally inclined friends to try coconut oil, whether that be through naturally formulated products or just straight oil-pulling. And after doing some pretty intense research for this story on the benefits of coconut oil for your hair, I decided to give it a go. (Truly, it sounds like a miracle ingredient.)
Here's the problem, though, unlike the decent amount of studies done on coconut oil in general, there's not a lot of research about its use in oral care. So to figure out what the deal was, I reached out to a holistic dentist to get the scoop.
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"I can respond anecdotally about coconut oil's benefits: I absolutely believe it has whitening properties, can decreased sensitivity, and there's even the idea that it can deter cavities from getting worse," says holistic dentist and assistant clinical professor at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine Ester Rubin, who also notes there are no studies or data on this at the moment. "And what's so fascinating about the whitening claims is that from what I can tell, it's not removing extrinsic stains on enamel—which can be removed with brushing—but it's helping the dentin, which is the layer under the enamel that's more difficult to treat."
I Tried Oil-Pulling to Whiten My Teeth Naturally
I was intrigued.
So first up: oil pulling. Ever since the practice broke the internet a few years ago, I made a pact with myself that I'd never try it. I am one to shun most things that the internet loves—even if it's something that I'd typically like. Oil pulling is an ancient ayurvedic tradition: The idea is that by swishing around oil in your mouth for 20 or so minutes, you are pulling out impurities in the mouth and body as a whole. It's also said to reduce plaque (there's a small study that suggests it might). Sesame seed oil is the more traditional option, but many chose coconut oil since it's antibacterial, has brightening claims, and is more palatable. The technique that most people suggest is taking a tablespoon or less of the oil and gently work it around in your mouth. After, spit it out (in the trash, not the drain), and remove any residue by gargling warm saltwater, then brushing as normal.
And I have to admit, I didn't love this. Twenty minutes is a long time to do anything, especially in the morning on an empty stomach. I tried to distract myself by answering emails or while in the shower, but all I could think while doing it was I can't believe it hasn't been 20 minutes yet! I also was not prepared for the oil to "expand" in your mouth. (It's said it does this because it is collecting toxins.) The sensation just did not sit well with me.
However, a simpler option that Rubin recommends for patients who also don't care for pulling: Dip your toothbrush in coconut oil, brush around for 2 minutes, rinse, and then brush as normal. This was something I could actually get into the habit of doing—while it might not be as effective as standard pulling, it is at least something I would do regularly enough to see a difference.
The next two options were much easier: Hello Fluoride-Free Antiplaque and Whitening Toothpaste and Dr. Ginger's Coconut Oil Whitening Pen. The first, a whitening toothpaste made with coconut oil, tea tree oil, and peppermint. It was the easiest of my new habits, as it just involved buying a new tube of toothpaste, which I needed anyway. However, I wasn't so sure it was the coconut oil that had the whitening claims (the brand said it's included to moisturize your gums).
Rubin had similar thoughts about pastes in general: "I do tell patients to not rely on toothpastes for getting healthy ingredients into your gums, as the concentration in it is so low that it's likely not doing anything major." Also: Just brushing regularly removes surface stains, like coffee or wine.
The pen was the element that was most similar to the more traditional teeth-whitening methods. As a natural alternative to those chemical-laden whitening gels and strips, the whitening pen just felt better than the other options I've tried in the past. As a teen I remember painting my teeth with a goopy, terrible-tasting mess or sloppily trying to apply the gel strips. They were a pain, and often, literally: Even the most gentle of these formulas made my gums and teeth sensitive.
Not this option: It tasted great, was effortless to apply, and didn't make my teeth ache after. It comes in a bamboo tube, and you just apply the formula with the wand in a circular motion. Afterward, you do have to keep smiling for a full minute while it dries, but after dealing with 20 minutes of oil pulling, that felt like nothing.
Overall, I saw an impressive improvement from my threefold approach. It was a shade or two whiter, noticeably. I even had a few compliments on my teeth from friends. The pen was likely doing the heavy lifting as it was more specifically formulated for stain removal, but I will likely keep these habits in my rotation, not regularly, but whenever I need a touch-up.
Oh, and the last step? Well, it's sort of cheating, but it works. It's an old makeup artist hack: Wear lipstick with blue undertones, which will make your teeth appear whiter. It works due to basic color theory—blue cancels out yellow. So if you pick a lip shade with blue tones, it will neutralize any yellow on your teeth. And just so I could be consistent with my coconut oil trend, Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Liquified Lipstick in Braised is also made with the hydrating oil—and the rich red shade? It's positively brilliant.
Can coconut oil whiten teeth?
It’s a question that needs a clear answer. You want to know if such an all-natural and cost-effective product for DIY teeth whitening could really get you that bright smile you’ve always dreamed about….or if it’s a bogus claim.
In this post, we’ll discuss just how effective coconut oil is for teeth bleaching.
Table of Contents
What is Coconut Oil For Teeth?
Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?
Why Use Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?
How To Whiten Teeth with Coconut Oil?
What is Coconut Oil For Teeth?
what is coconut oil for teeth
Coconut oil is extracted from the flesh of coconuts via a pressing process. The oil is usually white and solid at room temperature and melts into a clear liquid when warmed. Coconut oil may be virgin or refined, and some types are even hydrogenated with chemicals to help the oil maintain a solid state in warm environments. Here are a few quick facts about coconut oil:
Coconut oil adds a rich and unique flavor when added to foods like stir-frys or curries
Coconut oil is high in lauric acid which may have some benefits for conditions like psoriasis and acne
Although it’s perceived as a healthy kind of fat, coconut oil is still a saturated fat which should be consumed in moderation
Coconut oil is an excellent natural moisturizer for skin and hair.
Coconut oil is a beloved ingredient and food staple in the Philippines, India, and Polynesia
Beyond topical and dietary use, however, there’s a recent trend of using coconut oil in oral hygiene. Some people, for example, swear by coconut oil for oil pulling to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
You may be interested in finding out whether or not you can use coconut oil to whiten teeth.
But does science support this concept?
Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?
There’s a simple fact we need to put out there right away: coconut oil doesn’t bleach teeth.
Coconut oil doesn’t whiten teeth in the same way that actual teeth bleaching products do. It won’t affect the natural color of your teeth.
coconut oil for whiten teeth
Bleaching is a process where color pigments are lifted from the tooth. It’s actually the result of a chemical process that releases microscopic bubbles which help dissolve stains from deep within tooth tissues. Hydrogen and carbamide peroxide are two strong types of bleach commonly used in teeth whitening.
Coconut oil doesn’t react that way with tooth stain. It will only sit on the surface of your teeth.
What about the claims that coconut oil does whiten teeth?
That’s probably due to two factors:
Brushing or flossing or rinsing with coconut oil incorporates an action that mechanically removes surface stains and dull plaque from teeth. So having brighter teeth right after using coconut oil may be due more to the physical action of the oil rather than any special property of the oil itself.
Coconut oil leaves an oily film on the teeth and gums that temporarily discourages the formation of more yellowish dental plaque.
Despite the hype, not everyone who tries using coconut oil notices amazing results. This is because, as mentioned above, coconut oil does not actually make teeth whiter; it just temporarily helps them to look and feel cleaner because that soft layer of plaque is gone.
If you’re hoping to get dramatically whiter teeth fast, then you’re better off going with a more tried and tested teeth whitening products like, for example, the Supersmile teeth whitening system.
A few popular whitening options include:
Teeth whitening strips
Teeth whitening rinses
Professional teeth bleaching treatments in a dental office
If you’re searching for a simple teeth whitening product that doesn’t involve a trip to the dentist, then check out our list of the best online teeth whitening kits. We have the information you need to choose the best at-home teeth whitening kit for you.
Why Use Coconut Oil to Whiten Teeth?
While the jury is still out on teeth whitening, there are multiple other potential benefits of adding coconut oil into your oral care routine.
For one thing, using coconut oil on a daily basis (using one of the techniques discussed below) will encourage you to pay more attention to your oral health, in general. And the more you do that, the more time you’ll spend on taking care of your teeth and gums. This will result in a naturally whiter and healthier smile.
How to Save $$$ and Whiten Your Teeth NATURALLY with OIL PULLING! || DAY 27
Additionally, using coconut oil as a whitening rinse will help lift gingivitis- and cavity-causing bacteria from between your teeth. Swishing just about any healthy liquid, in fact, can have the therapeutic benefit of soothing gums and reducing plaque from those hard-to-reach spots between teeth. So even if the coconut oil itself doesn’t whiten your teeth, the simple act of swishing it can improve your oral health.
Lastly, coconut oil is safe for your teeth. You have to be careful not to swallow too much since it is a saturated fat that can harm your overall health if you consume too much. But other than that, it’s perfectly fine for your teeth.
It doesn’t hurt to give coconut oil a try and see how it works for you!
How to Whiten Teeth with Coconut Oil
Here’s how you can start practicing coconut oil teeth whitening.
Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil
The primary way to try whitening your teeth with coconut oil is by practicing oil pulling.
Oil pulling is a hygiene practice that goes back thousands of years. People have been doing oil pulling in India and Southeast Asia for a long time. The practice is said to whiten teeth in addition to freshening breath and promoting tooth and gum health. Oils such as olive oil and sesame oil can be used in oil pulling, but coconut is quite common given its mild and sweet flavor.
The steps for oil pulling are as follows:
Measure out about a tablespoon of coconut oil. If it’s solid, you can either scoop it right into your mouth where it will quickly melt or you can microwave it for about 20 seconds to soften it.
Hold the oil in your mouth and gently force it back and forth between your teeth in a sucking motion.
Do this for 15-20 minutes.
Spit out the oil in a trashcan and not down a sink or toilet drain (it can harden as it cools in your drainpipe and cause a blockage).
Repeat this process daily to start seeing the benefits of oil pulling.
Again, oil pulling with coconut oil is only rumored to whiten teeth. There’s not enough scientific evidence backing this practice, which is why the American Dental Association (ADA), an authority in the dental field, does not endorse it.
However, there is no harm in trying oil pulling for yourself to see if it works for you. The only downside is that it can take some time to get used to the sensation of having a pool of oil in your mouth for minutes on end.
It’s important to know that oil pulling, no matter how many supposed benefits it has, is no replacement for regular brushing and flossing. Oil pulling with coconut oil will likely reduce plaque on your teeth, but it can’t get rid of it all. You need to brush and floss to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Practicing oil pulling alongside these healthy hygiene habits will help you to get the most benefit from coconut oil.
Floss with Coconut Oil
flossing with coconut oil whitening
You can also work some coconut oil in between your teeth by rubbing a piece of dental floss in the oil and then flossing your teeth. Doing this doubles as an opportunity for you to floss more regularly.
What About Brushing Your Teeth With Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil makes a great base for a natural toothpaste. If you have sensitivities to regular toothpaste, then try making your own by mixing up a paste of coconut oil and baking soda.
When brushing your teeth with this paste, the coconut oil itself may not have much to do with whitening your teeth. Simply scrubbing away plaque and food stains can make your smile look whiter after brushing just one time with coconut toothpaste. In this case, the mechanical action of your toothbrush and the grit from the baking soda are doing most of the work, not the coconut oil.
You should also keep in mind that a homemade natural toothpaste with coconut oil would be missing one key ingredient that’s vital for healthy teeth: fluoride. So if you use a coconut toothpaste, remember to talk with your dentist about fluoride options and alternatives that can strengthen your tooth enamel.
Brushing Your Teeth With Coconut Oil
brush you teeh with coconut oil whitening
So does coconut oil whiten your teeth?
Not really. Coconut oil is not the best cure for yellow teeth. But it could still have multiple other benefits for your oral health. And in the process of keeping your teeth and gums clean and free of stain-causing bacteria, coconut oil could help you maintain a white smile.
If you choose to use coconut oil as a teeth whitener, remember to incorporate it as an adjunct to brushing and flossing, not a replacement for these oral hygiene activities. Using coconut oil alone will not give you healthy white teeth.
As you give coconut oil a try, take some selfies to measure your progress and commemorate your journey to a healthier and more beautiful smile!
What is the best way to whiten your teeth?
You can choose to whiten your teeth at home or take professional help for the same.
Multiple factors cause teeth to become dull and lose their bright, white sparkle.
Certain foods can stain your enamel, which is the outermost layer of your teeth. Additionally, plaque buildup on your teeth can cause them to look yellow.
This type of discoloration can usually be treated with regular cleaning and whitening remedies.
There are plenty of products to choose from when it comes to whitening your teeth.
1. Practice oil pulling
2. Brush with baking soda
3. Use hydrogen peroxide
4. Eat fruits and vegetables. A diet high in fruits and vegetables may be good for both your body and your teeth.
5. Limit staining foods and beverages
There are several natural methods to help whiten your teeth. Most of these remedies work by gently removing surface stains on your teeth.
However, most dentists offer teeth whitening treatments that are much stronger than these natural remedies. Many surface stains can actually be removed during a regular dental cleaning and don’t require chemical treatment. Your dentist will know which teeth whitening method is best for you.
How can I whiten my teeth without chemicals?
4 Easy Ways to Whiten Your Teeth Naturally at Home
1.Prevent dental stains from forming.
While your teeth will naturally becomes yellow as you get older, there are several things you can do to help prevent stains.
Keep staining foods and beverages to a minimum.
Coffee, red wine, carbonated beverages, and dark berries are all known to discolor teeth.That doesn't mean you should avoid them entirely, but you should limit the amount of time they come into touch with your teeth.To avoid direct contact with your teeth, sip liquids that are known to stain teeth with a straw if at all possible.
Additionally, brush your teeth 30 minutes after consuming one of these foods or beverages to reduce the color change in your teeth organically.
2. Practice oil pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Indian folk treatment for improving oral hygiene and eliminating toxins from the body.The procedure is swishing oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria that can cause plaque and yellowing of your teeth.Oil pulling was traditionally done using sunflower or sesame oil, although any oil will do.
3. Apply a layer of baking soda to the surface.
Baking soda is a common ingredient in commercial toothpaste because of its inherent whitening effects.It's a gentle abrasive that can be used to remove surface stains from teeth.Baking soda also creates an alkaline environment in your mouth, which inhibits bacteria growth (Trusted Source).
4.Consume fresh fruits and veggies
Fruit and vegetable-rich diets may be beneficial to both your body and your teeth.Crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can help push plaque away as you eat, though they're no substitute for brushing.Strawberry and pineapple are two fruits that have been touted as tooth whiteners.
I suggest to try this natural organic tooth whitener
What is the healthiest way to whiten teeth with relatively fast results?
Whiten Teeth Fast: Bright Methods
-Avoid Known Stain Causers
There are plenty of other foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, including:
blueberries
blackberries
pomegranates
barbecue sauce
black tea
sugary treats
curry
turmeric
paprika
-Invest in an Electric Toothbrush
-Use Whitening Toothpastes
-Consider Whitening at the Dentist's Office
-Stop Smoking
PS- These are some generic ideas when it comes to teeth whitening, but I would rather prioritize teeth health more than just whitening your teeth.
Is coconut oil and baking soda better for whitening my teeth or normal toothpaste?
Make sure you differentiate between “whitening” and “brightening”.
How to Whiten Your Teeth at Home with My Dentist Husband | Easy, Quick, Safe, Inexpensive
Brightening your teeth requires some abrasive material to abrade away topical stains. It is like washing your car. You will get the dirt off of it but the color won’t change. Baking soda is a mild abrasive with a RDA (coefficient of abrasivity) of around 7. Most toothpastes have RDA’s of between 100–200, though many are now lower than that. Typical “whitening toothpaste” (technically a misnomer) have RDA’s over over 200, which potentially can scratch your teeth and even wear away the enamel layer when used for years.
The color of your teeth is primarily determined by the color of your dentin, the layer under the enamel. Enamel is semi-transparent. So if the sublayer is yellow, your teeth will seem yellow.
“Whitening” your teeth requires the the pigmented oil soluble pigments that found their way deep into your enamel and dentin, to be broken down into water soluble, transparent materials. This can be accompanied by “oxidizing” them using something like hydrogen peroxide (actually it is the perhydroxyl ion, an ionized form of it that does the trick). This can be done in the dentist’s office or at home over time.
So, I would not rely on coconut oil and baking soda to “whiten my teeth”. A “normal” toothpaste (with a higher pH than baking soda) will be more abrasive and will remove more stains (under the same conditions) thereby “brightening” your teeth.
How can you whiten your teeth without damaging them (like baking soda or medical help does)?
There are two ways to whiten teeth, bleaching or whitening strips.
Bleaching shows quick results. Bleaching mobilizes the surface of enamel to remove stains and bleach the enamel to acquire the desired whitening. It should begin at your dentist’s office making trays that fit over the teeth. The bleaching material is placed in the tray and the trays are worn at night. In is necessary to complete the full regime to make the bleaching permanent. It does not damage the tooth structure.
Whitening strips are commercial products you can buy over the counter. The strips are place on the just the front teeth and are worn over night. This process is much slower. The actual cost of whitening strips is about the same as bleaching. You just have to keep purchasing the strips until the teeth are whitened. This requires much more effort that bleaching.
Lol, the answers here are pretty “nail on the coffin lid” eh? Ok, so someone HAS done a study on oil pulling. The oil of choice was coconut oil, but the authors state that just about any kind of organic oil would work as well. The verdict, oil pulling WILL dissolve food particles and wash it away, leaving your teeth clean!
The problem was that it takes FIFTEEN MINUTES of oil pulling to achieve the same effect as brushing your teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste - yup, to get the same effect from oil pulling as brushing, you have to do it 7.5 times LONGER. My patient struggle with 2 minutes of brushing, 15 minutes? Like the lady on the YouTube vid - “ain’t nobody got time for that”.
As for “whitening”, unfortunately, the oils themselves have no whitening effects.
How do you make yellow teeth white like pearl? What is your home remedy?
Two methods to banish the yellow from your teeth. Try each one for 90 days to decide which you like best. These are movie star tested!
Julia Roberts method: Brush your teeth twice a day with nothing but plain baking soda. Dip your damp toothbrush into the soda. You should have a mound of it on your brush. Use a mouthwash after, preferably one that contains fluoride, since baking soda has none. May take up to three months for teeth to get fully bright, especially if you smoke or like coffee/tea.
Joan Collins method: Brush your teeth with regular, commercially prepared toothpaste twice a day as you normally would; except every other evening, instead of toothpaste, brush your teeth with sea salt. If the brand of sea salt you buy comes in COARSE and FINE, opt for the FINE texture. If it does not come in different textures don’t worry about it. Sea Salt will make your mouth throb and tingle a bit but the sensation goes away with 30 minutes after brushing.
With both of these methods, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and proper brushing techniques. Don’t try to make your teeth get whiter faster by scrubbing hard. No need, the natural abrasion in both methods will remove the yellow on their own. Just be patient. Besides, hard scrubbing, even with regular toothpaste, can cause damage.
Coffee and nicotine consumption causes staining and yellowing of the healthy teeth. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, probiotics, enzymes, potassium, magnesium, and other necessary ingredients that aid in cleaning the teeth and killing the harmful bacteria in the oral cavity.
Stained teeth are a problem for millions of people around the world. I found this site, it really is amazing check it out: teeth-whitening.science
Baking soda is an agent used for various purposes such as odor removal, carpet cleaning, and shinning stuff. It is easily available in the market and is extensively used for many household purposes. The abrasive nature makes baking soda effective for cleaning and whitening things.
The same abrasiveness of baking soda cleans the teeth stains and makes them white. This same property of baking soda can damage the tooth enamel and cause problems such as oral sensitivity. If youre already suffering from teeth sensitivity, the use of baking soda on your teeth will make this worse.
How can I whiten my teeth in a week naturally?
While tooth-whitening kits are readily available at most pharmacies, many natural remedies can help remove stains and protect tooth enamel
Eliminating foods that mark the teeth can prevent further staining
Acidic food sources can make the teeth look yellow by wearing out the lacquer. Individuals who are worried about the shade of their teeth ought to stay away from the inordinate utilization of citrus, espresso, and pop. Then again, they ought to consistently brush their teeth subsequent to having them
Trying oil pulling
Oil pulling is the term for washing the mouth with oil to remove dirt, bacteria, and debris. It is not a substitute for regular brushing or flossing
coconut oil
sunflower oil
sesame oil
Keep follow these routines
Brushing with baking soda
Using hydrogen peroxide
Making dietary changes
White teeth are teeth that reflect most of the white light that falls on them. If you go into a dark room, for instance, your teeth will not look white in that room.
Now what causes the white light to be reflected. Firstly, most of the light has to be reflected and not absorbed by some dark pigment (stain) on your teeth. Therefore, you can try to "wash out" temporary food stains (like blueberry stains) by brushing , if you brush soon after the meal. Or if the tooth appears dark because of demineralization, you can try to fill the dark voids where hydroxyapatite crystals were knocked out by a low pH situation (it is like replacing black pixels on a picture with white pixels). This will make the surface smoother, thereby reflecting most of the light that is pointed at it. Of course cleaning your teeth professionally will help remove the dark pigments which absorbed light. Whatever you do, don't use some acidic materials (like lemon juice....) that yes, will help slightly whitening your teeth, but more importantly the acid will remove not only the stain but the enamel as well.
If you think of hydrogen peroxide as being natural (your body naturally produces it on its own), then normal teeth whitening with either hydrogen peroxide or carbide peroxide could be used, to make the dentin whiter, at the same time bleach some topical stains.
Stay away from abrasive toothpaste (RDA greater than 100) since they will "whiten" your teeth by abrading the enamel, until there is little left.
So to sum up, if you want to “brighten” your teeth (that is to remove surface stains), best to go to a dentist and have him/her professionally remove these topical stains. Don’t try to do it with acidic compounds like lemon juice, apples or abrasive material etc. After you get them professionally cleaned, brush gently but thoroughly at least twice a day, and preferably after eating pigmented food or drinks. And don’t smoke, whatever you do. Getting nicotine stains out is very difficult.
And if you wish to “whiten” your teeth, that is to make the dentin under the enamel whiter, home made remedies will not help and can cause harm. The only thing that dentists use today is a form of oxygen, either in the form of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The perhydroxyl ion that separates out of these peroxides, penetrates through the enamel and into the dentin, attacking dark pigments making them colorless and water soluble. This can be done in the dentist’s office or with take home trays. Things like whitening strips can help but they are not as effective as the dentist prescribed solutions.
And stay away from a lot of these “home-made” (natural) remedies. They can do much more harm than good.
Is coconut oil good for your teeth?
According to Dr. Mercola, In a study to test coconut oil's biocidal properties against the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, the oil proved to be quite effective.
The action of coconut oil was tested in its natural state and after being treated with enzymes, in a process similar to digestion. The oils were tested against strains of Streptococcus bacteria, which are common inhabitants of your mouth.
"These are the 6 Reasons to Use Coconut Oil as Toothpaste"
1. No Harmful Chemicals
2. Effective Against Cavity-Causing Bacteria
3. No Foaming Agents
4. Inexpensive
5. You Can Use It on Your Dog's Teeth Too
6. Simple to Make
Oil pulling involves 'rinsing' your mouth with coconut oil, much like you would with a mouthwash (except you shouldn't attempt to gargle with it). The oil is "worked" around your mouth by pushing, pulling, and drawing it through your teeth for about 10-15 minutes. This process allows the oil to "pull out" cavity-causing bacteria and other debris from your mouth.
Oil pulling is an ancient, Indian folk remedy claimed to whiten your teeth, freshen your breath and greatly improve your oral health.
Using coconut oil for oil pulling is becoming increasingly popular.
A lot of people swear by this remedy, and many say it also improves their health in other ways.
This article explores whether there is any truth behind these claims or whether oil pulling is just another useless trend.
What Is Oil Pulling and How Does It Work?
Oil pulling involves swishing oil around the mouth, using it like a mouthwash. It has been used for thousands of years as an Indian folk remedy.
In order to oil pull, you put a tablespoon of oil in your mouth, then swish it around for 15–20 minutes.
The main benefit of doing this is that it reduces the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in your mouth. While many of them are friendly, others are not.
The bacteria in your mouth create a biofilm on your teeth, a thin layer known as plaque.
Coconut Oil Pulling (Detoxifies, Whitens Teeth, Kills Bacteria) - Dr Alan Mandell, D.C.
Having some plaque on your teeth is perfectly normal, but if it gets out of hand, it can cause various problems, including bad breath, gum inflammation, gingivitis and cavities.
The way oil pulling works is simple — when you swish the oil around your mouth, the bacteria get swept away and dissolve in the liquid oil.
Absolutely.
Some people naturally have pretty bright colored teeth. When it's natural, it looks good. But, when people go in to have crowns or veneers done and they pick the whitest and brightest chicklet of the bunch it doesn't look natural and it's very overwhelming.
As we age, the nerve in our teeth shrinks and causes our teeth to naturally get darker. Not uber dark, but darker. It's not so bad when you're young but porcelain white on an elderly person just doesn't look natural.
In a sense, our teeth naturally age with the rest of us.
This is too white, in my opinion. They are solid white.
This is a standard shade guide for patients who are selecting a shade for their crowns. If this patient was only going to have one Crown done he or she would want to pick one of the two shades from the left side. They are close to matching what they already have in their mouth now.
If they are going to have the whole mouth done I still believe the two shades on the left would be the better shade. They look natural and are still light in color. The two on the right are way too white.
I am not a dentist but I have worked in Dental for 24 years. This is only my opinion.
I can't tell you how many times I hear this question, and right now I am covering this topic in an ongoing series of posts on tooth whitening: The Top 3 Ways to Whiten Teeth Sustainably. I will do my best to sum up what is a very broad topic here.
There are numerous means of whitening your teeth, but your goal should be to whiten your teeth in a sustainable fashion. Sustainable tooth whitening means that you achieve the best, longest lasting whitening while preserving the health of your teeth and their protective mechanisms. Instead of getting side tracked with the tenets of sustainable whitening you can read about them here: What is Sustainable Teeth Whitening?
The Best Tooth Whitening Method
Basically your best and healthiest option for tooth whitening is through your dentist with in-office whitening or at-home whitening trays. They provide the best color stability, shortest active whitening periods, and your dentist can help you manage negative side effects to your teeth. Since these products don't have to be sitting on shelves for an extended period these whitening products will have a relatively neutral pH which is healthier.
Store Bought Whitening Products
Whitening mouthwashes rely almost entirely on acids to strip off stains and tooth structure as well. This is not healthy for teeth and is especially when they are used as a pre-brush rinse, where you scrub with abrasive toothpastes on softened enamel afterwards.
Whitening toothpastes rely heavily on abrasives to achieve their whitening effect and do not whiten deeply so they have to be used constantly to maintain the effect. The abrasives are harsh on tooth structure when used as a daily toothpaste so while they may seem like an appealing whitening method, I would not recommend them. People with excessive dark stain and tartar accumulation due to their salivary composition will benefit from these toothpastes, but will still have to titrate their use.
Crest White Strips have the least number of harmful side effects compared to other over-the-counter at-home whitening products. They also have decent color stability. However, this should still not be your primary whitening method because of the lower pH and more frequent use required. They are a nice way to boost whitening between treatments at your dentist.
Natural Whitening Alternatives
Oil Pulling from a Dentist's Perspective
I always find the idea of nature tooth whitening ironic because deliberately whitening your teeth is not a "natural" process, staining and yellowing is what occurs naturally with time so there essentially is no such thing as natural teeth whitening.
There have been many different "natural" products circling the internet including lemon juice, strawberries and baking soda, etc. All of them have one thing in common they rely on unhealthy acids (or heavy abrasives like active charcoal) to strip away layers of tooth structure to "whiten" your teeth. This is not healthy at all, and unfortunately you won't notice the negative effects until the damage becomes macroscopic and there is significant loss of tooth structure.
The whitening claims surrounding oil pulling is different and while coconut oil has demonstrated some antimicrobial activity against cavity causing bacteria, there is no scientific evidence at this point to suggest that coconut oil pulling will whiten your teeth significantly. That doesn't mean there won't be actual science to follow, there just isn't any right now.
For a process that takes 15-20 minutes to work as designed, I would like to see meaningful evidence to support its use for whitening. I will say that if there was any effect, it would be mostly due to the papain content in virgin coconut oil than oxidation of fatty acids (as some claim online). The oxidation of the fatty acids in the oil is more indicative of spoilage than anything else. I would utilize it to extend the whitening effect of more substantial whitening methods.
There is a good deal of debate over coconut oil for teethwhitening, primarily because big companies often discourage the practice, saying there isn’t enough proof of its effects, while natural health practitioners regularly praise the efficacy of this ancient treatment. The fact is, teeth whitening is a big industry, generating over $10 billion per year, but rather than bleaching your teeth with hydrogen peroxide and other chemicals, there is a way to naturally remove the toxins that accumulate in your mouth.
There is no standard for how long coconut oil for teeth whitening will take, but people use oil pulling as frequently as once a day to as infrequently as once per month. Regular use of this practice should bring some measurable results within 2-3 weeks if used daily. Rather than using potentially dangerous chemical bleaches, coconut oil relies on the lauric acid within it to cut through bacteria and remove toxins from the oral cavity, which is how much of the discoloration begins.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Teeth Whitening?
If you want to use coconut oil for teeth whitening, it is very simple, but there are still some clear guidelines you must follow. Some people also combine coconut oil and baking soda to whiten teeth, although the taste of this is even more unpleasant, making it rather unpopular, albeit effective.
- Place 1 teaspoon of raw, cold-pressed organic coconut oil in your mouth.
- Swish the oil around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, being sure not to swallow the oil, as it will contain toxins that you are trying to eliminate from the body.
- Spit the oil directly into the garbage can, as you don’t want to put oil down your sink drain.
- Rinse your mouth out with warm water, or do a quick gargle with warm salt water.
- Brush your teeth immediately afterward to physically eliminate any remaining bacteria or toxins.
White teeth and a beautiful smile - doesn't that sound wonderful? The dream of radiant teeth is possible with the miracle product coconut oil. A true all-rounder for hair, skin, lips and cooking. We show you how to get white teeth with the superfood coconut oil. What is oil pulling actually? Oil pulling is absolutely trending right now and is highly praised on social media and online. It helps naturally against yellow teeth, discoloration of the teeth, tooth decay, bad breath and supports the complete oral hygiene.In the so-called oil pulling, some coconut oil is put in the mouth and rinsed back and forth. Through this process, the teeth and the interdental spaces are cleaned and the complete mouth area is detoxified by the antibacterial effect. Basically, oil pulling works the same way as rinsing with conventional mouthwash. The only difference: the process takes much longer. We recommend that you use coconut oil to clean your teeth for about 10-20 minutes. We recommend cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil, which is also called virign oil. White teeth with coconut oil: How to whiten teeth successfully Put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth. In cold temperatures, the consistency of the oil is cold and solid. Therefore, let it melt beforehand or simply melt in your mouth until it becomes liquid on its own. The coconut flavor is delicious no matter what. Now cleanse your mouth with the coconut oil by dragging the oil back and forth through your teeth and gums. Be sure not to swallow the oil. SmileSecret Tip: Do you have problems rinsing? Then you may have put too much coconut oil in your mouth. Continue the process for about five to twenty minutes until your mouth, teeth and gums are clean. Spit out the oil afterwards. SmileSecret Tip: It's best not to spit the oil into the sink, as it can clog the drain. It's best to spit it into a container and wash it out with detergent and water. So, now you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm water and clean your teeth with toothpaste. Keep doing the oil pulling until you achieve the desired result of whitening your teeth and get white teeth. Oil pulling benefits for teeth whitening and dental hygiene Oil pulling with coconut oil has a lot of benefits that are also proven by dentists. However, daily dental hygiene and cleaning should be applied in addition. It has an antibacterial effect and whitens the teeth in a natural way. Coconut oil cleanses the entire mouth area, teeth, gums and removes ugly tooth discoloration caused by excessive consumption of tea, coffee, wine or nicotine. It also inhibits caries-causing bacteria and thus reduces unpleasant bad breath. All advantages at a glance: Reduces inflammation of the gums. Improves gum health Reduces harmful germs and bacteria Improves oral hygiene, oral flora and oral health Ensures white teeth and supports tooth whitening Antibacterial action inhibits bacteria responsible for tooth decay Brilliantly white teeth Removes tooth discolouration Does oil pulling give you white teeth? The antibacterial effects of oil significantly reduces germs and bacteria and thus dangerous dental plaque, tartar and gingivitis. Since this leads to yellow teeth, coconut oil already limits these risks and supports teeth whitening. What other alternatives are there for healthy and white teeth? Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least three times a day and flossing as well. If you suffer from painful teeth and fillings, you should pay much more attention to your dental care and cleaning. Bleaching products can also help with teeth whitening and bring you closer to the dream of a radiant smile. Whether it's teeth whitening, activated charcoal powder, or the whitening pen - all whitening procedures brighten the teeth and ensure white teeth. And all this from the comfort of your own home. Buy now in the SmileSecret Shop and order online. The SmileSecret teeth whitening whitens teeth in just 16 minutes.With these 5 tricks for beautiful white teeth you whiten teeth and are the absolute eye-catcher!
Do you want to whiten your teeth naturally at home? After reading this, you will know a safe and effective way to get cleaner and brighter looking teeth. Find out how you can whiten your teeth using coconut oil and baking soda!
Why I Started Using Coconut Oil + Baking Soda to Whiten Teeth
Am I the only one who loooooves coffee?! I seriously drink a HUGE cup of coffee almost every single day. I’ve switched to decaf now because I am breastfeeding, but that’s besides the point. Decaf or regular, both are teeth staining! I try to switch it up with my Matcha Latte recipe, but that’s only if I’m in the mood. Even if you don’t like coffee or matcha, a lot of foods and beverages can stain your teeth!
coffee
I recently saw a picture of myself and I was SHOCKED at how dull and yellow my teeth are starting to look. I’m only in my 20’s!!! I wanted to stop this ASAP and find a SAFE and EFFECTIVE solution to whiten my teeth.
The reason I wanted to do a DIY teeth whitening experiment was to see if I could actually whiten my teeth without having to pay a ton of money or potentially damage my teeth with whitening treatments. A lot of the teeth whitening products I’ve seen seem dangerous and harmful. So I did a little research to find a safer alternative…
I did the research so you don’t have to!
research
After doing some research, I realized there are a lot of DIY at home teeth whitening remedies. Something else I realized is that A LOT of them can be harmful to your teeth. Hydrogen peroxide and apple cider vinegar freaked me out. I was NOT interested in doing anything to my teeth that would damage my enamel or gums. That left me with only a few safe options which I am going to tell you all about! (besides the obvious: brush your teeth twice a day and floss.)
Coconut Oil Pulling + Baking Soda
I found the safest DIY teeth whitening options to be oil pulling and brushing with baking soda. These two options were simple, cheap, safe, and doable! So my natural, safe, DIY teeth whitening experiment began! (My husband was going to do it with me, but he only lasted a day) I set out on my journey and took a few notes halfway through the experiment and at the very end.
whiten your teeth using coconut oil and baking soda
Here was the DIY Teeth Whitening Challenge I created:
Oil pull for 15-20 minutes every single day for 28 days.
Brush with baking soda 2x per week.
baking soda
How to Whiten Teeth with Baking Soda?
Baking soda isn’t just great for baking lovely desserts like healthy fudge brownies, and paleo muffins. It’s also great for removing stains on your teeth! Or so I’ve heard…
Through my research, I found that brushing with a little baking soda mixed with water 2-3x a week would do the trick. Anymore than that and there might be some adverse effects like weaker enamel.
brushing teeth with baking soda
How to Whiten Teeth with Coconut Oil?
Coconut Oil is such an amazing kitchen staple in my superfood pantry. It has soooo many purposes and functions. Like chocolate chip pumpkin muffins! Oh, and teeth whitening!
How to Oil Pull using Coconut Oil
Oil-pulling is very simple.
Does Coconut Oil Pulling Work? My Experience After 3 Months!
First, put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth. (It will melt)
Then, you swish it around for 15-20 minutes.
Lastly, spit it out in a garbage can. That’s it!
The health benefits I found to oil-pulling with coconut oil can be found here.
whiten teeth using coconut oil
How Fast Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?
Halfway through the 28 day DIY Teeth Whitening Challenge:
I am now half way through this at home teeth whitening 28 day challenge! I set a reminder on my phone to make sure I follow through on the oil pulling every night. Haven’t missed a day yet! I actually love the feeling of my teeth after swishing coconut oil around for 15-20 minutes. My mouth feels clean and my teeth are so smooth! I honestly can say that it’s kind of a nice little night time routine, just swishing oil and getting ready for bed.
How Fast Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth?
The brushing with baking soda is kind of a different story. I keep forgetting that one! I am probably doing it once a week. Which honestly I’m fine with because I’ve heard mixed things about baking soda. I just don’t want to do anything to damage or weaken my teeth.
When I do brush with baking soda though, my teeth feel soooo clean and smooth! I really love the feeling of a really clean mouth!
Sadly, I have not noticed a considerable change in the whiteness of my teeth. I am excited to finish this challenge and take the after photo to compare though. That will be the true TELL ALL!
THE RESULTS! Did the DIY teeth whitening actually work?!
I apologize in advance for the close up mouth pictures. But if you clicked on this you knew what you were getting into! THESE ARE UNEDITED PHOTOS! And I tried to get the lighting exactly the same in both so that you can really see if there was any change.
If you look at the before and after pictures it is so clear that my mouth and teeth look SO MUCH CLEANER and HEALTHIER after oil pulling and brushing with baking soda for 28 days!
Before
After
After the 28 day oil-pulling challenge, here are the improvements I saw in my teeth and overall oral health:
First, my teeth are smoother
Second, my mouth is cleaner
Third, the yellowing of my teeth is significantly less
Fourth, the plaque build up decreased a ton (as shown in pictures)
Lastly, my teeth are a little brighter
Before
After
Did the Coconut Oil and Baking Soda actually whiten my teeth?
Overall, I would say that my teeth are just a touch brighter. I would by no means say that the coconut oil pulling got my teeth really white. If anything the benefits I listed above is what the oil pulling did for my oral hygiene.
Before
After
Okay that’s enough pictures of my mouth!
Will I continue to Oil Pull?
The short answer is: YES! I love how clean the oil pulling made my teeth. The plaque build up drastically went down as well and that makes my teeth look better too! I won’t be as extreme as oil-pulling every single day, but once a week is doable. After oil-pulling everyday for 28 days, I know I can have the discipline to do it at least once a week.
I believe practicing oil-pulling for just 15-20 minutes once a week will have a tremendous impact on my oral health and I look forward to keep it going!
Do I Recommend Coconut Oil-Pulling?
I definitely recommend oil-pulling if you are looking for a cheap and easy way to positively impact your oral health! If you try it, please tell me all about it! I would love to hear your experience with it and the changes you see in your teeth while oil-pulling.
You may always be on the lookout for the latest and greatest scientific discoveries that can benefit your health and beauty. Coconut oil has been a hot topic in recent years. Some claim that it can aid in weight loss, prevent heart disease, treat urinary tract infections, and even whiten teeth! If you buy into all the hype, coconut oil sounds like a miracle drug. However, it’s important to be cautious. While we won’t speak on this oil’s effects on your overall health, we’re here to put our two cents in on what it can and can’t do for your smile.
How Do People Use Coconut Oil to Whiten their Teeth?
One beauty blogger brushes her teeth with a combination of coconut oil and turmeric a few times a week. The theory behind the practice is that since turmeric is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it’s great for oral health. She also says that it helps to remove plaque. The coconut oil reportedly helps to wash out stains.
Another teeth-whitening method involving coconut oil is a practice known as oil pulling, in which you melt a teaspoon of the oil and swish it around your mouth. Oil pulling has been around for centuries, and many people swear by it.
Does It Really Work?
There is good news and bad news. The good news is that using coconut oil on your teeth is unlikely to cause any damage. The bad news is that it won’t whiten your teeth.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that coconut oil has any benefits for oral health. Furthermore, swishing with or brushing with oil tastes icky and takes up time that you could be using on proven teeth whitening methods.
So What Is the Best Way to Whiten Teeth?
Don’t let your disappointment in coconut oil lead you to try other unproven methods of whitening teeth. Some people swish with hydrogen peroxide or apple cider vinegar, or they might think that lemon or orange peels can whiten teeth. While there may or may not be merit to these methods, why waste your time and efforts on something that you can’t be sure works?
The best way to achieve a whiter smile is to visit your Coatesville dentist for a consultation. You may be a candidate for professional in-office or at-home whitening. The in-office procedure takes only about an hour, and it produces dramatic results right away. Our at-home kits take a few days to offer noticeably whiter teeth, with the biggest difference happening after about two weeks.
Professional whitening is safe and effective, and it may be more affordable than you think. So skip the crazy whitening fads and trust your dentist to help you achieve the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted.
Oil pulling is an ancient, Indian folk remedy claimed to whiten your teeth, freshen your breath and greatly improve your oral health.
Using coconut oil for oil pulling is becoming increasingly popular.
A lot of people swear by this remedy, and many say it also improves their health in other ways.
This article explores whether there is any truth behind these claims or whether oil pulling is just another useless trend.
What Is Oil Pulling and How Does It Work?
Oil pulling involves swishing oil around the mouth, using it like a mouthwash. It has been used for thousands of years as an Indian folk remedy.
In order to oil pull, you put a tablespoon of oil in your mouth, then swish it around for 15–20 minutes.
The main benefit of doing this is that it reduces the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in your mouth. While many of them are friendly, others are not.
The bacteria in your mouth create a biofilm on your teeth, a thin layer known as plaque.
Having some plaque on your teeth is perfectly normal, but if it gets out of hand, it can cause various problems, including bad breath, gum inflammation, gingivitis and cavities.
The way oil pulling works is simple — when you swish the oil around your mouth, the bacteria get swept away and dissolve in the liquid oil.
Oil pulling should work with pretty much any oil, but extra-virgin coconut oil is a popular choice due to its pleasant taste.
It also has a favorable fatty acid profile, containing high amounts of lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties (1Trusted Source).
For more information about the benefits of oil pulling, check out this article.
SUMMARY
Oil pulling is an ancient Indian remedy to clean the mouth and teeth. It is claimed to reduce the risk of cavities, gingivitis and bad breath.
Coconut Oil Pulling Can Reduce Harmful Bacteria in Your Mouth
Streptococcus mutans is one of the main bacteria in your mouth and a key player in plaque buildup and tooth decay.
One study in 60 adults showed that oil pulling with coconut oil for 10 minutes every day significantly reduced the number of S. mutans in saliva in as little as two weeks, compared to distilled water (2Trusted Source).
Another study in children concluded that coconut oil was as effective as a standard chlorhexidine mouthwash at reducing S. mutans (3Trusted Source).
While these results are promising, more studies are needed comparing the effectiveness of coconut oil to other types of oils.
NATURALLY WHITEN YOUR TEETH IN 2 WEEKS? Coconut oil pulling, health benefits and how-to oil pull
SUMMARY
Using coconut oil as a mouthwash can significantly reduce the number of harmful bacteria, such as S. mutans, in your mouth.
Oil Pulling Can Reduce Plaque and Gingivitis
Gingivitis is caused by inflammation of the gums and occurs when your immune system starts attacking the bacteria in the plaque.
One study in 20 adolescent boys with plaque-induced gingivitis compared the effects of sesame oil pulling and a standard chlorhexidine mouthwash.
Both oil pulling and mouthwash were effective against gingivitis (4Trusted Source).
Coconut oil has similar benefits. Another one-month study in 60 adolescents found that daily coconut oil pulling significantly reduced markers of gingivitis (5Trusted Source).
SUMMARY
Oil pulling with coconut oil may help reduce inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis.
WERBUNG
Oil Pulling Can Reduce Bad Breath
Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, is in many cases caused by the smell of chemicals and gases produced by bacteria in your mouth.
It’s associated with infections, gingivitis and overall poor oral hygiene (6Trusted Source).
It makes sense that if you get rid of some of these bacteria and improve your oral health, you reduce the likelihood of having bad breath.
A study in 20 adolescents showed that oil pulling with sesame oil significantly reduced all markers of bad breath and was as effective as a chlorhexidine mouthwash (7Trusted Source).
More studies need to examine whether oil pulling with coconut oil has similar benefits for halitosis. But given that it may reduce plaque and gingivitis, it seems likely.
SUMMARY
Some evidence suggests oil pulling with sesame oil reduces bad breath. Coconut oil may have the same effect.
Unproven Benefits and Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about oil pulling.
One common claim is that oil pulling can whiten your teeth. However, currently no studies confirm this benefit (8).
Some people also believe that oil pulling is a type of detox that draws toxins from the blood. No evidence supports this idea.
Finally, there is no scientific evidence that this remedy helps treat any diseases other than those affecting the mouth.
SUMMARY
There are plenty of myths and misconceptions about oil pulling. Currently, no evidence supports claims that oil pulling whitens your teeth or eliminates toxins in your blood.
How to Oil Pull
Oil pulling is incredibly simple:
Put about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth
Swish the oil around your mouth for about 15–20 minutes
Spit out the oil, then brush your teeth
It’s best to spit the oil out onto a piece of paper and put it in the trash — the fat might otherwise clog your pipes over time.
There is no need to use a lot of force. If oil pulling causes pain in your facial muscles, relax a bit. Try using less oil next time and don’t swish it around too forcefully.
Some people say it’s best to oil pull on an empty stomach, before brushing your teeth. Many do it while showering or bathing in the morning.
SUMMARY
Oil pulling is simple. Put one tablespoon of oil in your mouth, swish it around for 15–20 minutes and spit it out. Then rinse with water and brush your teeth.
The Bottom Line
Oil pulling with coconut oil is a simple method that may reduce your risk of bad breath, cavities and gingivitis.
There are plenty of other health claims associated with oil pulling, but most are not supported by science.
Nevertheless, oil pulling seems to be an excellent complementary strategy to improve your oral hygiene. It’s definitely worth trying.
As luck would have it, many of the most enjoyable things in life can stain your teeth. Your morning cup of coffee, that evening glass of red wine, heck, even seemingly innocuous things such as tomato sauce and blueberries can leave your teeth looking dingy. As far as whitening your smile goes, at-home whitening products can provide pretty powerful results with the added bonus of being cost-effective, convenient, and causing little-to-no tooth sensitivity. Plus, versatility is the name of the game, with plenty of formats to choose from—toothpaste, strips, pens, and more—to fit any preference.
However, not all whitening products are created equal, so we tried some top-rated options to see if they’re really worth the hype. Our testers used these products for weeks at a time, rating how effectively and quickly each one brightened their smile (and noting whether or not they left teeth and gums sensitive or irritated). Our team then combined these results with our own research of other best-selling products and tapped cosmetic dentist Dr. Jon Marashi for his recommendations to compile this list.
Try these best teeth whitening products and get ready to flash your pearly whites.
Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL:
Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light at Amazon
BEST OVERALL, RUNNER-UP:
Crest 3D White Luxe Whitestrips at Amazon
BEST KIT:
GLO Science Teeth Whitening Device at Amazon
BEST KIT, RUNNER-UP:
Snow Teeth Whitening Kit With LED Light at Amazon
BEST TOOTHPASTE:
Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste at Bed Bath & Beyond
BEST TOOTHPASTE, RUNNER-UP:
Moon Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste at Ulta
BEST FLOSS:
Spotlight Oral Care Dental Floss for Whitening Teeth at Spotlightoralcare.com
BEST FOR SENSITIVE TEETH:
Go Smile Teeth Whitening Snap Packs at Amazon
BEST SUSTAINABLE:
Bite Whitening Gel Teeth Whitening Kit at Bitetoothpastebits.com
BEST FOR ALIGNERS:
Byte BrightByte at Byteme.com
IN THIS ARTICLE
Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
Why Trust Byrdie
Best Overall: Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light
strips
4.8
VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON BED BATH & BEYOND
VIEW ON WALMART
The Crest 3D White Whitestrips With Light Transformed My Smile
What We Like
Visible results in 10 days
Easy to use
Results last up to 36 months
What We Don't Like
Causes mild sensitivity
How To WHITEN Your TEETH With Coconut Oil
Crest is no stranger to the at-home whitening world, but this latest innovation really is a game-changer. It takes the same beloved strips the brand is best known for and amps up their effects with blue light technology to provide unmatched results that can last up to 36 months.
For 10 days, you wear the strips for an hour, then hold up the light device to the strips for another 10 minutes (five minutes each on the top and bottom). The light boasts the same technology found in dentist’s offices, which helps the hydrogen peroxide in the strips better penetrate the tooth enamel and ultimately leads to whiter teeth.
And, yes, it really works. Byrdie product tester Jenna Igneri notes she began to see a brightening effect by day five, and by day 10, her smile was noticeably a few shades lighter, while any bothersome stains had faded significantly.
Type: Strips, light | Session Duration: 70 minutes | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide, sodium hydroxide
Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light
BYRDIE / JENNA IGNERI
Best Overall, Runner-Up: Crest 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Whitestrips
crest 3d white whitestrips
4.8
VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON ULTA
VIEW ON BED BATH & BEYOND
Crest’s 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Whitestrips Left My Smile So Bright
What We Like
Visible results in two weeks
Easy to use
Affordable
What We Don't Like
Causes mild sensitivity
Truly a classic, you really can’t go wrong with these easy-to-use strips. They have the American Dental Association's (ADA) seal of approval, which was granted to them in 2017. To drive home how major that is, it's worth mentioning that it's the first product to earn the ADA seal in the Home-Use Tooth Bleaching Products category, according to the ADA. They promise to remove up to 10 years' worth of stains, and this variety features extra grip to ensure they stay in place.
Dr. Marashi is also a fan, lauding both the affordable price and the good results they deliver. Still, he does note that compliance with any at-home product is usually the main issue, so you’ll need to use these every day (for the entire duration of the two-week treatment cycle) to see the best results.
Type: Strips | Session Duration: 30 minutes | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide, sodium hydroxide
Crest 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Whitestrips
BYRDIE / JENNA IGNERI
Best Kit: GLO Science GLO Brilliant Teeth Whitening Device
GLO Brilliant Deluxe Teeth Whitening Device Kit
4.6
VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON DERMSTORE
VIEW ON BLOOMINGDALES
GLO Science's GLO Brilliant Teeth Whitening Device Gave Me a Brighter Smile in 10 Days
What We Like
Portable and easy to travel with
Visible results in five days
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Remote battery runs out quickly
A little bit on the pricier side, this is pretty much the closest you can get to a pro-style treatment at home. You start by applying the protective lip balm, then brush a thin layer of the whitening gel along the fronts of your teeth. Pop in the mouthpiece and turn it on, either manually or via the app, fancy.
The GLO technology—which stands for Guided Light Optics. FYI—it uses a combo of both light and heat to activate the hydrogen peroxide-based gel, so you get whiter teeth, fast.1 It shuts off after eight minutes, though you have to repeat the process twice more after that. Do three cycles total for seven days in a row for impressive results.
Type: Gel, light | Session Duration: 8 minutes | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide, sodium hydroxide, potassium nitrate, sodium fluoride
GLO Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device
BYRDIE / ASHLEY REBECCA
What Our Testers Say
"I’d say my teeth are about one to one-and-a-half shades lighter than they were in the beginning and with consistent use past the 10-day mark, they will get even brighter." — Ashley Rebecca, Product Tester
Best Kit, Runner-Up: Snow Teeth Whitening Kit With LED Light
SNOW Teeth Whitening Kit with LED Light
4.5
VIEW ON AMAZON
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VIEW ON BEST BUY
The Snow Teeth Whitening Kit With LED Light Gave Me Whiter Teeth Without Sensitivity
What We Like
Effectively breaks down dark stains
Safe for sensitive teeth
Safe for dental work like braces/crowns
What We Don't Like
Expensive
This is Dr. Marashi’s pick for a full-on system. “It combines a special wavelength of light delivered via the mouthpiece combined with the whitening gel. The light activates the gel to effectively break down dark colors that are staining your teeth,” he explains. It’s a fan-favorite on Amazon, too, repeatedly pulling in positive reviews with customers commenting on how well it works and how it’s worth the price.
Each kit comes with three wands of Snow's whitening gel as well as an extra-strength version in addition to the LED mouthpiece. The best part? It's safe for use by those with sensitive teeth, braces, bridges, caps, crowns, and veneers.
Type: Gel, light | Session Duration: 9 to 30 minutes | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, potassium nitrate
snow teeth whitening kit with led light
BYRDIE / LEIGH WEINGUS
What Our Testers Say
“If you want whiter teeth without the pain, spring for the Snow Teeth Whitening Kit With LED Light. You’ll end up with a brighter smile without the potential painful side effects and a bad aftertaste.” — Leigh Weingus, Product Tester
Best Toothpaste: Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste
Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste
VIEW ON BED BATH & BEYOND
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What We Like
Stronger than traditional whitening toothpastes
Affordable
Protects with fluoride while refreshing breath
What We Don't Like
Not as effective as strips or gels
Surprise, Crest does it again. Using toothpaste is probably the easiest way to work a whitening product into your routine—after all, you’re already brushing your teeth every day as it is. While we’ll admit, whitening toothpastes usually aren’t nearly as powerful as gels and other treatments, this one is actually a pretty solid option.
Combining the brand’s Fastest Whitening Technology and Advanced Stain Protection, it buffs off surface stains—up to an impressive 95% of them in just three days—and offers protection against further stains, all while strengthening your teeth and fighting off cavities with fluoride. We’re sold.
Type: Toothpaste | Session Duration: 2 minutes | Active Ingredients: Fluoride
These 13 Toothpastes Target Stains, Sensitivity, and More
Best Toothpaste, Runner-Up: Moon Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste
Moon Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste
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What We Like
Uses natural ingredients and extracts
Formula foams nicely
Freshens breath
What We Don't Like
Fluoride free; won't protect against cavities/decay
Another game-changing whitening toothpaste is this charcoal version from the oral care brand Moon. Formulated without fluoride, it cleans and freshens the breath while its proprietary ELIXIR X blend of extracts and ingredients gets to work to whiten, brighten, and promote overall healthier-looking teeth and gums. Plus, we love that its key ingredient list sounds more like a skincare product than a toothpaste: It contains a combination of green and black teas, ginseng, echinacea, camu camu, cranberry, dead sea salt, tea tree oil, coconut oil, and peppermint oil.
It certainly doesn't hurt that it's also sulfate-free, cruelty-free, vegan. And, fine, we know this isn’t necessarily an important feature of a tooth whitening product, but the packaging is also super pretty.
Type: Toothpaste | Session Duration: 2 minutes | Active Ingredients: Activated charcoal
What Our Editors Say
“I never believed a toothpaste could whiten noticeably, but I swear my teeth look so much whiter and brighter since I started using this. Plus, I like that it's made with gentle ingredients, and the mint flavor isn't so extreme." — Faith Xue, Former Editorial Director
How To Coconut Oil Pull - For Whiter Teeth And A Healthy Body - Naturally! - fabulous50s
Best Floss: Spotlight Oral Care Dental Floss for Whitening Teeth
Spotlight Dental Floss for Whitening Teeth
VIEW ON SPOTLIGHTORALCARE.COM
What We Like
Targets pesky stains between teeth
Made from recycled plastic
Sustainable packaging
What We Don't Like
Needs to be manually cut
Breaking news: It’s not just the stains on the front of your teeth that can make them appear discolored. Staining in between the teeth also contributes to an overall dingy appearance. Flossing is super important in preventing this, but you can up the ante even further by using this floss, which is infused with hydrogen peroxide.
FYI, you get just the roll of floss (without the plastic holder that you typically get) so figuring out how to pull it out and cut it takes a little bit of getting used to, but it’s well worth the extra effort.
Type: Floss | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide
The 9 Floss Picks That'll Get You Excited About Flossing Daily
Best for Sensitive Teeth: Go Smile Teeth Whitening Snap Packs
Go Smile Teeth Whitening Snap Packs
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What We Like
Non-sensitizing formula
Visible results in one week
Promises to leave teeth seven shades whiter
What We Don't Like
Results are subtle
Looking to whiten and brighten your smile, but worried your teeth are too sensitive for a tooth whitening product? Fear not, this teeth whitening system is formulated with a non-sensitizing hydrogen peroxide gel that won’t hurt your teeth or gums but still works super effectively. In fact, some results are noticeable in as little as one day.
Commit to using these for just one week to score teeth that are up to seven shades whiter. Snap open each individual pack and apply to the fronts of teeth post-brushing, morning and night, for just seven days. Considering that most other systems take weeks to show results, this one is truly a must.
Type: Gel | Session Duration: 20 minutes | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide
Best Sustainable: Bite Whitening Gel Teeth Whitening Kit
Bite Whitening Gel
VIEW ON BITETOOTHPASTEBITS.COM
What We Like
Vegan formula
100% plastic-free system
Sustainable packaging
What We Don't Like
May cause slight gum irritation
In the market for a whitening product that’s both clean and sustainable? Look no further than this whitening gel from Bite. You may be familiar with Bite for its innovative and clean toothpaste “bites,” and now the eco-minded brand has launched the first and only 100% plastic-free teeth whitening system on the market. The glass bottle comes complete with a compostable brush to make application quick and easy.
But of course, more on the product itself: The vegan peroxide-based formula is gentle enough to be used by those with sensitive teeth, but trust, it works. Simply swipe on for two minutes, twice a day, and watch it work its magic. Each bottle contains enough serum for 28 applications, enough for a two-week supply.
Type: Gel | Session Duration: 2 minutes | Active Ingredients: Carbamide peroxide
Best for Aligners: Byte BrightByte
BrightByte
VIEW ON BYTEME.COM
What We Like
Whitens teeth while you align
Non-sensitizing formula
What We Don't Like
Can only use with aligner or retainer
If you’re currently rocking Invisalign or any other type of clear, corrective aligners, this pick is for you. “The foam keeps your aligners clean while whitening your smile simultaneously, so you get both straighter and whiter teeth at the same time,” says Dr. Marashi, who’s a fan. Oh, and did we also mention that it freshens your breath, too?
All you need to do is squeeze one pump of this 3-in-1 foam into your aligner or retainer trays, making sure it’s spread all over evenly. Then, pop them on and voilà! Simultaneously brighter, whiter, and straighter teeth.
Type: Gel, trays | Session Duration: Dependent on tray use
Best Pen: Crest Whitening Emulsions Leave-on Teeth Whitening with Built-in Applicator
Crest Whitening Emulsions Leave-on Teeth Whitening with Built-in Applicator
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What We Like
Reaches tooth crevices
No sensitivity
What We Don't Like
Reviewers say the formula feels gloppy
For those looking for a simple, easy option that can be used pretty much anytime, anywhere, this portable pen can’t be beaten. All you have to do is brush the whitening gel (which contains five times more hydrogen peroxide than other comparable products) onto each tooth—that’s it. What we appreciate most is how its flexible brush tip can get inside the crevices between your teeth, making eliminating tough coffee stains a breeze. The formula took over two decades to develop and boasts a water-resistant, hydrating base that both helps it adhere better to teeth and minimizes sensitivity. The latter is a point confirmed by reviewers, who also talk about how well and quickly it works.
Type: Gel | Duration: As long as it stays on | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide
The 12 Best Teeth-Whitening Pens for On-the-Go Brightening
Best Toothbrush: Foreo Issa 3
Foreo Issa 3
VIEW ON AMAZON
VIEW ON FOREO.COM
What We Like
Effective for improving health and teeth appearance
Very hygienic and sustainable
You get 365 uses out of one charge
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Okay, so a toothbrush alone isn’t going to whiten your teeth, but this one can help you achieve your goal of pearly whites faster (especially when it’s paired with a good whitening toothpaste.) Reviewers report that their teeth were whiter and brighter. Credit the fact that yes, it’s a sonic toothbrush, but the first of its kind to combine silicone and polymer bristles to help more thoroughly break down plaque. It also has a built-in tongue and cheek cleaner, plus all kinds of other cool bells and whistles, such as 16 different adjustable settings.
Type: Toothbrush | Duration: 2 minutes | Active Ingredients: Silicone and polymer bristles
Best Toothbrush Subscriptions of 2022
Best Fast-Acting: Co. by Colgate Overnight Teeth Whitening Wand
Co. by Colgate Overnight Teeth Whitening Wand
VIEW ON ULTA
What We Like
Reaches tooth crevices
Easy to incorporate into your routine
Goes on white so you can easily see where you’re applying it
What We Don't Like
Reviewers dislike the taste/film left behind
To be honest, a professional, in-office whitening treatment is undoubtedly the best way to get the fastest whitening results. That being said, this at-home option is no slowpoke. When used as directed (i.e. applied to clean teeth overnight and brushed off in the morning), the hydrogen peroxide-based formula can whiten teeth by up to three shades in just two weeks.
Dentist Reacts to Whitening Teeth with Turmeric and Coconut Oil | Tik Tok Gone Wrong | Dr. Mihika
Type: Serum | Duration: Overnight | Active Ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide
The drier your teeth are when you apply this, the better it will work.
Best In-Office Alternative: Candid X Philips Zoom Whitening Kit
Candid X Philips Zoom Whitening Kit
VIEW ON CANDIDCO.COM
What We Like
Highly-effective
Trays are custom made
What We Don't Like
Causes irritation and/or sensitivity
Expensive
Again, nothing compares to in-office whitening, but this is the next best thing. The gel touts a clinical-grade level of hydrogen peroxide, while the trays are custom-made just for you, meaning they are both super comfortable and fit your teeth to a tee for maximum efficacy. They can be worn daily for 30 to 90 minutes up to two weeks (making this a nice customizable option as well), though you can start to see results in as little as three days.
Type: Gel, trays | Duration: 30 to 90 minutes daily, for up to two weeks | Active ingredients: Hydrogen peroxide
Final Verdict
While teeth whitening can be dependent on the person, team Byrdie can’t go past the Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light since they combine the brand's popular whitestrips with the power of blue light or the Crest 3D White Luxe Glamorous Whitestrips for their ease of use and American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval. And when it comes to minimal effort, maximum impact, the Crest 3D White Brilliance Toothpaste (view at Bed Bath & Beyond) is gold class. Just switch your regular toothpaste out for this one and you’re golden.
Best Teeth Whitening Treatments
BYRDIE / ALISON CZINKOTA
MEET THE EXPERT
Dr. Jon Marashi is a cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles. He has a long list of celebrity clients, is the chief cosmetic officer of Byte, and is a member of the American Dental Association.
What to Look For in a Teeth Whitening Product
The Application Method
Typically with at-home whitening, consistency is key, so it’s important the product you buy is one you’ll actually use. Check how it applies, how long it needs to be worn, and how often you’ll need to use it before you pull the trigger.
Price Point
It’s no secret at-home products will never yield the same results as a professional treatment, so be sure to consider this when it comes to price. Exorbitant or inflated treatment kits will just leave you disappointed. That being said, our list is vetted by us to ensure you get results at a reasonable price.
Potential Allergens or Irritants
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that at-home teeth whitening products can contain harsh or potentially irritating ingredients, especially if they come into contact with your skin. We suggest running any questions or concerns past your dentist or health professional first.
FAQ
How do teeth whitening products work?
Dr. Marashi explains that teeth whitening products typically involve a peroxide gel that’s applied to the surface of the teeth, whether it’s delivered via foil, a strip, or a custom-molded tooth tray. The peroxide gel soaks into the tooth, dissolving internal discolorations. “Think of it as applying bleach to a cranberry stain on white fabric,” he says.
Are teeth whitening products safe?
According to Dr. Marashi, yes, teeth whitening products are safe. “Obviously, there may be some inferior products out there, but by and large, they are safe!” he says. A great way to know if an oral care product is up to par is by checking to see if it earned an ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Can you avoid pain and sensitivity after using teeth whitening products?
Some folks may be wary of using teeth whitening products as they’ve been known to cause minor tooth sensitivity. According to Dr. Marashi, you can avoid this by using a topical fluoride or desensitizing toothpaste after removing your whitening product.
GLO Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device
BYRDIE / ASHLEY REBECCA
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. As an avid coffee drinker (and blueberry eater, and red wine drinker, you get the picture), she’s always on a quest for whiter teeth. She prefers at-home whitening products over in-office treatments for the ease and lack of sensitivity.
Most people associate a beautiful smile, with one being bright white and perfectly straight. Almost every ad, celebrity, and model is boasting a beautiful smile that nearly everyone is envious of. This leads many of us on the quest to obtain a brilliant...
Most people associate a beautiful smile, with one being bright white and perfectly straight. Almost every ad, celebrity, and model is boasting a beautiful smile that nearly everyone is envious of. This leads many of us on the quest to obtain a brilliant smile. However, most of us want to find the most budget-friendly way of achieving those results—que oil pulling. This is a pretty recent development and method. Some can brighten your smile. But does it really work? In this article, we’ll explore the coconut oil whiten teeth myth, how’s it done, and options for you to obtain a whiter smile. What is the coconut oil whiten teeth myth? What is the coconut oil whiten teeth myth? So the myth goes, coconut oil can remove stains and other discolorations. It is said that the coconut oil will attach to the bacteria or stain and then be rinsed away. The term oil pulling came about when used to describe swishing oil in the mouth and to pull it through the teeth. A person would need about a teaspoon or so of edible oil, like coconut. They would then swish around the oil as a means to care for their teeth. Many have claimed that coconut oil has tremendous benefits for the health of gums, the ability to remove plaque, and lastly, white and teeth. But many of these myths have been busted, including the ability for oil pulling to reveal a brighter whiter smile. What is the origin of oil pulling? While it may seem like a relatively new home remedy for getting whiter teeth, oil pulling has been around for hundreds of years. It has deep roots in Southern Asia and Indian medicine. These cultures have all considered oil to have significant health benefits, including removing bacteria that can lead to plaque and gingivitis. Another significant benefit that the southern Asian and Indian medicine groups have claimed is coconut oil can decrease sensitivity in teeth. How is it done? The method for naturally whitening your teeth with coconut oil is a straightforward process. All you need is a few teaspoons of coconut oil. You can directly apply the oil to the fronts of the teeth. Then with your mouth closed, swish around the product, ensuring it coats every tooth. This process will take anywhere from 1 to 5 minutes, or as long as 20 minutes. After swishing, you can wait a few minutes for the oil to “soak in”, then rinse. There are several types of oils that can be used for oil pulling. Edible oils commonly used are sesame, oil, coconut, and sunflower. What does science say about this method? What do experts say about the coconut oil whiten teeth myth? According to the American Dental Association, there are not enough studies or scientific evidence to prove oil pulling is beneficial to your oral health nor it is an effective method for teeth whitening. The conclusion is that swishing oil around your mouth is ineffective. While mainstream media has made grand claims that oil pulling is exceptionally effective at teeth whitening, and at a great low price, those that would try it may be disappointed. If you’re eager to have a whiter smile, the best thing to do is to discuss it with your dentist. They will walk you through what options are available and which ones will work. Whitening teeth solutions Whitening teeth solutions Are you curious about what options are available to give you a brighter, whiter smile? Of course, one of the first methods individuals try is over-the-counter strips. These do provide results, but they can take weeks, and often the desired results aren’t achieved. Most will comment that by using whitening strips, they have a patchy lightening. Another home remedy that is cost-effective and actually works for lifting some stains is hydrogen peroxide toothpaste. Brushing with hydrogen peroxide whitening toothpaste can lift stains in a few weeks. Many brands on the market promote whitening effects. When purchasing, look at the active ingredients to determine how powerful the whitening impact could be. Brands with a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide may be more effective at removing extrinsic stains. Teeth whitening is something many individuals look for to improve the appearance of their smile. One of the best ways that offer the fastest results is with in-office teeth whitening services. There is simply no comparison for professional teeth whitening against other options on the market or things you can do at home. Dentists help millions of patients discover a beautiful smile; they can’t wait to show off. Many offer two options for their patients. The first is their in-office teeth whitening, and the other is an at-home kit. These are much more effective at lifting stains than over-the-counter options, and provide up to eight shades lighter much faster. Preventing stains and discolorations One of the best ways to have a brighter smile is to take preventative action. Avoiding things that may stain your teeth, such as heavily dyed food and drinks are an easy method for stopping certain stains. For example, coffee and wine are known contributors to making teeth appear dull. Those that smoke may also find that their teeth may look dingy or yellow. No matter what type of teeth whitening system you use or try, it’s important to look at the factors contributing to the staining. Remember to visit your dentist every six months for cleanings, as excellent oral health can keep your teeth looking their best. Conclusion A whiter smile is something many look forward to having that they would try anything to make it happen including oil pulling, over-the-counter pastes, and strips. Still, the most effective way of obtaining a consistently brighter smile in a shorter amount of time is with professional teeth whitening at your dentist’s office. Are you unhappy with your smile because of discolorations, stains, or it isn’t as bright as you’d like? Contact Image Dental for an appointment today! You may request an appointment online by clicking here or by giving us a call at (209) 955-1500 during regular business hours.
A shiny set of pearly whites is something we all strive for, right?
While teeth as blindingly white as the Love Island cast (we're looking at you, OG Connor), might be a step too far, a subtly brighter smile is universally flattering. I know we are sadly all confined to isolation right now but after completing GLAMOUR's very extensive list of things to do in isolation, I am tackling my beauty to-do list. I've used a gloss on my hair, had a go at threading my own eyebrows and given myself an at-home shellac but hours spent on Zoom calls made me realise my smile could do with a little 'spruce up'.
There's plenty of teeth whitening kits on the market, including the best-selling Crest Whitening Strips, but if you're looking for a more natural way to brighten your smile, coconut oil is apparently the answer. Plus, in lieu of being able to get out to Boots to buy an at-home teeth whitening kit, I thought I'd try out the tub of coconut oil that's been sitting in my cupboard for a few months.
How to Oil Pull: Coconut Oil Pulling Benefits / For White Teeth + Healthier Body
Whilst there's no scientific studies to support some benefits of oil pulling, there's plenty of Ayurvedic research and celebrity endorsement to suggest it could give you whiter teeth and honestly, I'll do anything to beat the boredom at this point, results or no results.
The method was brought to the mainstream by none other than Gwyneth Paltrow. When asked if she has any favourite DIY skin treatments, Gwyneth preached the benefits of coconut oil: "I use coconut oil a lot. I do on my face, on my skin and in my cooking. And I just started oil pulling, which is when you swish coconut oil around [in your mouth] for 20 minutes, and it's supposed to be great for oral health and making your teeth white. It's supposed to clear up your skin, as well."
Gwyneth said: "It's really interesting; it's an ancient, ancient technique. I read about it on the Internet."
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I tried the high street's most popular whitening strips and here's what happened...
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Since oil pulling is relatively new to the Western world, its health benefits have been vague, but a few published studies have confirmed that swishing oil does have value - especially for oral health.
In 2009, one study found that people who practiced oil pulling for 10 days showed a reduction in dental plaque comparable to plaque reductions seen in people who used chlorhexidine mouthwash during the same time period. And in 2008, another study found that oil pulling effectively reduced mouth bacteria in the plaque and saliva samples of study participants.
While we've heard that coconut oil isn't ideal for skin or hair, we were keen to find out if it could work wonders on our smile. Here's what happened when we tried daily oil pulling..
OIL PULLING REVIEW
I'm not seeking a TOWIE-esque white smile but those three daily coffees have been taking their toll on the hue of my teeth. In my humble opinion, everyone looks better with pearly whites so I was keen to achieve them.
I have super sensitive teeth and an attempt at having them professionally whitened ended, quite literally, in tears. After reading about the benefits of oil pulling not only for general health and wellbeing, but also for teeth discolouration, I thought I'd give it a whirl.
I opted for a tub of coconut oil from Neal's Yard Remedies and used a teaspoon in my mouth every morning. I swished it around for around 20 minutes while doing my makeup and followed up by cleaning my teeth as normal.
The taste is a little... acquired... but you'll quickly get used to it. After literally three days of oil pulling, people were commenting on my whiter smile in my daily Zoom calls. I continued to do it for a few weeks and noticed a major difference in the colour of my teeth.
The method is simple, pain-free and best of all, totally affordable.
My only word of advice? Don't spit the oil down the sink - spit it into a tissue and throw it away - or the method will be far from affordable when you have to fork out money on a plumber.
Dr. Kurthy, Founder of KöR Whitening, Talks About Coconut Oil Pulling to Whiten Your Teeth
Recently I was asked to comment on this article. My response…“Coconut Oil Pulling will whiten your teeth? Really? Absolutely not!”
Many people seek natural remedies, simply assuming that anything natural is good, and anything man-made is bad. Well, a rattlesnake bite is natural. Hemlock is a plant, but it’s so poisonous that it can kill you if you eat it. And there are hundreds, if not thousands, of other examples.
My belief is that people should simply look at whatever compound, material, drug, etc. can do for you, regardless of if it’s natural or not, compared to any downside of that compound/material/drug. But the problem is that I’m a scientist with a lot of science background and training. Most people simply have very little, if any, scientific knowledge. So of course, they’re at the mercy of what they’re told by others, most of whom also know virtually nothing about science, but make it seem like they do.
When it comes to whitening teeth with coconut oil pulling, here’s what I’ve found. Most of the consumer public reacts this way: If enough people say it, it MUST be true! Especially when those people say things like, “It’s been found that….”. What does that mean? To me, as a scientist, that would mean that scientific studies have proven something. But what these authors really mean is that they’ve read other articles where people make a claim, so they feel they can say, “It’s been found that…”.
The bottom line is, it appears one guy “just threw out there” that coconut oil pulling whitens teeth. So the next author after that, after having read the first article, also listed whitening teeth as one of the benefits. And as more and more articles are written they simply copy what others have said. So now every article says that coconut oil pulling whitens teeth. But get this…NONE of these articles say HOW coconut oil pulling supposedly whitens teeth.
Let’s start out by talking about how oil pulling, in general, is claimed to work to remove bacteria. You’ve heard the statement, “Oil and water don’t mix.”. Of course, we’ve all seen that to be true. Just try to wash the oil off your hands with water. It doesn’t work. But if you add soap, you now can remove the oil. Why is that?
Well, a soap molecule has one end that is water-based, and the other end is oil based. So the soap will combine with both water and oil, so this is why water and soap will remove oil from your hands. It’s simple science.
Just like animals have skin, bacterial cells have cell walls (cell membranes) that have a high content of lipid or fat (oil). Supposedly, when you coat these cells with oil (most commonly coconut oil), the coconut oil will closely stick to the oil in the bacteria membranes. And by swishing, the back and forth movement of the oil in your mouth is claimed to physically “pull” the bacteria off your teeth and gums. That’s where the term oil “pulling” came from.
From a purely scientific point of view, there is enough scientific reasoning here that maybe…just maybe…a properly conducted study may show some evidence of this really happening to one degree or another. But what does the removal of bacteria have to do with whitening your teeth?
I suppose if there is any stain floating among the bacteria, the stain may be removed at the same time, along with the bacteria. So if you don’t own a toothbrush or floss, maybe oil pulling might very, very slightly help in removing a stain. (by the way… that’s a joke) My point is that removal of un-attached stain from your teeth is far, far more effectively and quickly performed with a toothbrush and dental floss.
Probably the cutest, and most honest, article I came across was published by Vogue Magazine. One of their reporters did her own little test of coconut oil pulling. The Vogue author describes herself by saying, “…few things get my heart racing like the words ‘natural’ and ‘remedy.’ I am the kind of undercover New York new-ager who starts my day with a shot of chlorophyll, uses deodorant (in place of aluminum-containing antiperspirant)…”. But when all was said and done, this Vogue author ended her article saying, “As for the coconut oil, it’s not a total waste: I’ll be saving it for the bath instead.”
CAN COCONUT OIL BE USED FOR TEETH WHITENING? | EXPERT ADVICE
Many modern health trends incorporate the use of ancient home remedies. You may have heard of some of these, such as using charcoal toothpaste or putting certain essential oils on your body, promising to cure a variety of ailments. But one of the latest trends is about good old coconut oil. The claim is that coconut oil “pulling” can have a whitening effect on your teeth. But is this true?
In this expert post, we’ll find out about what exactly coconut oil pulling can do for your teeth and oral health. Next, we’ll look at some of the advice from the scientific and medical communities. Let’s see if these claims are true!
Coconut Oil Pulling: An Ancient Trick
Coconut oil is a great, healthy plant product with numerous health benefits, especially from a dermatological perspective. Lots of people claim that it keeps your skin and hair healthy and looking great. However, there are records of it being used in Ayurvedic medicinal practices to bolster dental health. In particular, the practice of “oil pulling” is claimed to clean the mouth, reduce bad breath and enhance the health of your teeth and gums.
Coconut oil is rich in saturated fats and medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). It contains primarily lauric acid and its monoglyceride monolaurin, which research shows to have antimicrobial properties.
So, the practise of oil pulling involves using a small quantity of oil and swishing it around the mouth and in between the teeth. It’s pretty simple: take about a tablespoon of coconut oil, swish or “pull” it around your mouth for about 15 minutes, and then spit it out and brush your teeth.
But does it work? Let’s see what the research has to say.
Does Coconut Oil Have Teeth Whitening Properties?
Let’s first look at what oil pulling can potentially help with.
Some studies indicate that coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties are particularly effective on some bacterial species that contribute to tooth decay. Some studies even indicate that it can be comparable to chlorhexidine, proven to be an effective antibacterial agent.
It’s hypothesized that the fatty acids in coconut oil may help “dissolve” and abrade plaque buildup on the teeth and gums and take with it any bacteria that happen to reside in the teeth. When you spit the resulting concoction out, it takes all the gunk and unwanted residents with it. This also has the effect of reducing bad breath.
Does it whiten your teeth, though? We can’t say. It doesn’t appear to do so. However, more detailed research is needed for conclusive evidence. The hallmark of quality science is the presence of multiple studies with independent peer review, and this is what the practice of oil pulling lacks. The American Dental Association (ADA) considers that there is not enough scientific evidence to prove that oil pulling is beneficial in any way, and therefore does not recommend it.
The Takeaway
It’s important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine with proven solutions, such as regular brushing and flossing. Coconut oil pulling is not a suitable substitute for this, and it certainly won’t help whiten your teeth. In comparison, commercially available and dentist-approved products exist that show definite results. A qualified dentist will be able to point you in the right direction if the goal is to have your teeth whitened.
Mission Bend Family Dentistry specializes in creating healthy smiles for the entire family. We provide superior care that offers your family comfort and convenience through our expertise and gentle care. For any questions or to schedule a consultation, call us at (832) 895-5110.
We’d love to see you and help you achieve a smile to be proud of.
If you're interested in natural remedies and organic products, you're probably familiar with the practice of oil pulling. This involves swishing a teaspoon or so of edible oil (usually coconut) around your mouth as a way to care for your teeth.
Some claim coconut oil offers benefits like healthier gums, plaque removal, and even whiter teeth. But before you make oil pulling part of your morning routine, it's important to ask, “Does coconut oil really whiten teeth?” It turns out that oil probably won't offer you significant oral benefits. We'll tell you why – but first, a little history.
What's the Origin of Oil Pulling?
The practice of oil pulling dates back to India and Ayurvedic traditional medicine, which promoted oil pulling for many ailments – including oral health. The idea is that as you swish and pull the oil through your mouth, it removes bacteria that can lead to plaque and gingivitis. Some claim that the practice also results in whiter teeth and decreased sensitivity.
With more and more people seeking natural remedies for a healthier body, oil pulling is one that crops up in dental hygiene topics. Natural living enthusiasts have eagerly picked up the habit of oil pulling – with some swishing oil for about 20 minutes a day searching for the supposed benefits.
Because oil pulling has such a pull (pardon the pun) on people, scientific studies have picked up on determining its merits.
Is There Scientific Proof That Oil Pulling Whitens Teeth?
Look to the experts if you're wondering if coconut oil is the solution for teeth whitening. The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that there's not enough scientific evidence to prove oil pulling is beneficial to your oral health. Without reliable research and testing, the ADA can't recommend the practice of swishing with oil.
A dentist opinion on Oil Pulling: Facts and Myths
The ADA received backup in a systematic review specifically on coconut oil pulling and oral hygiene published in the scientific journal Heliyon. The scientific review concluded that it's “difficult to determine whether oil pulling with coconut oil has an actual beneficial effect.”
What Teeth-Whitening Solutions Work?
What's been proven to get teeth in dazzling shape if there's no conclusive evidence that coconut oil whitens teeth? Below are the many ways you can make your teeth whiter at home or in the dentist's office.
At-Home Whitening
Effective over-the-counter whitening products contain natural products, like baking soda or xylitol. However, many use the super-effective bleaching agents hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide – applied in varying degrees depending on the product.
Some products come with LED light to further activate whitening your teeth. Home whitening products include:
Toothpaste: Ensure the toothpaste you buy contains fluoride. Use during your twice-daily brushing.
Mouthwash: Use when you rinse your mouth daily.
Strips: Follow the package directions to apply the strips containing a thin layer of a bleaching agent to your teeth.
Pen: Perfect for when you're on the go, you can use this pen to whiten your teeth any ol' time.
Gel Trays: Available where dental products are sold, these trays are best used at home by following the package directions.
In-Office Whitening
Talk to your dentist about professional in-office whitening for a brilliant smile. Among the options are:
Customized Tooth-Whitening Gel Trays: The customized trays can be more effective and better at protecting your gums than the over-the-counter trays. And if you prefer, you can use them at home.
Bleaching Gel and Laser Combo: Though delivering the most effective results, the out-of-pocket costs might not be in your budget. But the procedure might be worth it to you.
Discuss all options with your dental professionals. Whatever option you choose, using fluoridated whitening toothpaste as part of your regular oral care regimen can keep your teeth white.
Oil pulling might be popular in some circles, but in the end, its whitening and oral health benefits are inconclusive. If you really want whitening results, rely on the ingredients that have been proven to work. And then show off your whiter, brighter teeth to the world!
Is coconut oil better than toothpaste?
In a new study from the Athlone Institute of Technology in Ireland, scientists compared the effects of coconut oil versus toothpaste inside the mouth. They found that there are certain advantages that go along with swapping your old toothpaste for a spoonful of coconut oil.
How Does Coconut Oil Outshine Toothpaste?
Coconut oil can clean your teeth and prevent decay better than any mouthwash or toothpaste with fluoride on the market. Additionally, there are zero side effects since coconut is natural, and no chemicals to worry about.
The study says that coconut oil is able to kill common strains of bacteria in the mouth better than toothpaste. That includes something particularly harmful called Candida albicans.
What Does Coconut Oil Have That Toothpaste Doesn’t?
Coconut oil has properties that eliminate yeast in the mouth. Yeast is associated with common dental diseases and decay, so cutting down on yeast will make it more difficult for dental diseases to prosper.
Not only is yeast bad for tooth health, it also has side effects for the digestive tract. Yeast appears to live best in environments where the diet is high in processed foods and sugar. Toothpaste doesn’t appear to have the same effect on yeast.
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Coconut oil is also an effective alternative to the chemicals in most tooth care products.
How Much Coconut Oil And What To Do With It?
The study used one spoonful of coconut oil to clean teeth.
If you are exploring some different methods to use the coconut oil, you may want to look into oil pulling. This involves taking a spoonful of oil and putting it in your mouth. Allow it to melt and swish the oil back in forth in your mouth like you would with mouthwash. I have tried this and I will tell you it takes some time to get used to. The coconut oil is in a solid state when you put it in your mouth—but, trust me, it does melt. The articles I have read mention doing this for about 30 minutes. I typically will put it in my mouth and then hop in the shower while swishing. Once you are finished, be sure to spit out the oil—you don’t want to swallow all of the residue and gunk that it just washed off those pearly whites.
Can you use just coconut oil as toothpaste?
Your toothpaste might not be as harmless as you think it is. From artificial sweeteners to chemicals that break down the teeth’s protective layer, there are several harmful aspects associated with its usage. If you have decided to give up using toothpaste for good or just want to switch things up, there are several alternatives that are healthier and produce the same results.
Now that you have finally decided to ditch the commercial toothpaste, here are some natural alternatives that work just as well without exposing your teeth to harmful chemicals.
Baking Soda
You might have heard about this already. Baking soda is a commonly used ingredient in teeth whitening and cleaning. You can brush your teeth using baking soda mixed with water.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an ingredient that provides several benefits to your body, from improving the quality of your hair to your skin. It can also be used along with baking soda as a substitute for toothpaste. Other oils like sesame and sunflower can also be used for oil pulling to keep your teeth clean.
Sea salt
Another effective substitute for toothpaste is sea salt. Sea salt can effectively clean all parts of your mouth and keep it free of harmful bacteria. Make sure that you dilute it with water before using it so as to avoid abrasion of the teeth.
Essential oils
Essential oils like peppermint, cinnamon and eucalyptus can work wonders for your oral health. Use a couple of drops of essential oil mixed in water for cleansing your teeth, and you will get an observable improvement in your teeth’s shine and health.
Hydrogen Peroxide
One of the popular ingredients used for cleaning teeth is hydrogen peroxide. It helps fight off the bacteria present in the mouth and also keep the teeth spotlessly clean. Hydrogen peroxide should also be diluted before using it as an alternative for toothpaste. It should be noted that hydrogen peroxide should not be used in case you have artificial fillings.
Natural Soaps
Natural soaps that are used to clean the body can also help in cleaning your teeth and keeping them free of bacteria. You can go for flavors like peppermint to avoid getting a soapy taste in your mouth after brushing.
It is important that you thoroughly rinse your mouth after using any of these natural ingredients instead of your toothpaste. There are several other substitutes that can help you move on from conventional toothpaste and keep your teeth clean and healthy. Some herbal tooth powders are also available commercially. These generate results like toothpaste without putting your health at risk. You can learn more about ways to properly care for your teeth by visiting your dentist regularly. Getting your oral health checked routinely is extremely crucial. Make sure that you book an appointment with the dentist to find out how healthy and safe your teeth are and if you require updating your oral care routine.
Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.
Is it good to put coconut oil on your teeth?
Coconut oil continues to shine for its health-boosting properties, and rightfully so.
While most people are familiar with its numerous health benefits and keeping your hair and skin healthy, it’s also been used for thousands of years to improve dental health.
In particular, it’s been used in Ayurvedic medicine to clean and whiten teeth, reduce halitosis (bad breath), and improve gum health.
This article reviews the latest research on coconut oil and how it benefits your teeth.
Vera Lair/Stocksy United
What is coconut oil?
Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from coconut meat, and is one of the world’s richest plant-based sources of saturated fat (1Trusted Source).
The main type of fat in coconut oil is lauric acid, which is a 12 carbon (C12) medium-chain triglyceride (MCT), and makes up around half of coconut oil. It also contains small amounts of palmitic (C16) and myristic (C14) acid (1Trusted Source).
Interestingly, the fatty acids in coconut oil have been associated with having antibacterial properties, which may benefit your oral health. In particular, lauric acid and monolaurin (a monoglyceride form of lauric acid) are associated with having antimicrobial properties (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).
In fact, Ayurvedic medicine has used coconut oil as an antimicrobial for centuries to promote dental health through a process known as “oil pulling,” which is believed to rid the mouth of bacteria that lead to tooth decay and bad breath (4Trusted Source).
Coconut oil is easy to find in most grocery stores or online. While there are many varieties available, most people prefer to use extra-virgin coconut oil due to its better taste and limited processing.
SUMMARY
Coconut oil is an edible oil extracted from the meat of coconuts. It’s high in lauric acid, which may have antimicrobial properties to promote better oral health.
How I Whitened My Teeth in 14 Days!
Coconut oil and oral health
Oil pulling is a process in which a person swishes coconut oil in their mouth and around their teeth. Though more research is needed, it may support the health of your teeth, gums, and oral cavity.
Along with its antimicrobial properties, swishing oil in the mouth is believed to have a saponification — or cleansing — effect to help reduce adhesion of bacteria and plaque to the teeth (5Trusted Source).
It may remove harmful mouth bacteria
Coconut oil may help to attack harmful bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease (4Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
It’s particularly effective at killing an oral bacteria called Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), which is a leading cause of tooth decay. It may also reduce another prevalent bacteria known as Candida albicans (5Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).
One randomized study in 60 people found a significant reduction in S. mutans bacteria from oil pulling with coconut oil (10 milliliters per day) for 2 weeks. This was comparable to using chlorhexidine, a common antibacterial ingredient found in standard mouth rinse (8Trusted Source).
Another study in 50 children ages 8 to 12 observed a significant reduction in S. mutans bacteria from oil pulling with coconut oil for 2 to 3 minutes daily for 30 days. Results were similar in the control group using chlorhexidine, suggesting coconut oil may be equally as effective (9Trusted Source).
That said, a 2020 review suggests stronger powered, randomized controlled studies are needed to better understand oil pulling as an effective treatment for ridding mouth bacteria (10Trusted Source).
It may reduce plaque and fight gum disease
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, involves inflammation of the gums. The main cause of gum disease is the buildup of dental plaque due to harmful bacteria in the mouth and is associated with poor oral hygiene (11Trusted Source).
Current research shows that coconut oil may help to decrease plaque buildup on your teeth and reduce inflammation to fight gum disease.
In one pilot study, oil pulling with coconut oil for 30 days significantly decreased plaque buildup and signs of gingivitis in 60 participants with plaque-induced gum disease (12Trusted Source).
After 30 days, the average plaque score decreased by 68% and the average gingivitis score decreased by 56%. That said, the study lacked a control group (12Trusted Source).
Another pilot study also showed significant reductions in both plaque index and blood (gum bleeding) index scores after oil pulling for 20 minutes daily for 30 days (13Trusted Source).
Finally, a 7-day randomized study also had similar results after oil pulling with coconut oil for 10 minutes daily. However, the control group (mineral water rinse) had similar results, suggesting rinsing the mouth routinely may play a larger role in reducing plaque build-up (14Trusted Source).
While these studies show promising results, larger, randomized controlled clinical trials are needed.
It may prevent bad breath
Halitosis, better known as bad breath, is a common oral health issue. While certain medical conditions and medications can exacerbate bad breath, up to 85% of bad breath is caused from poor oral hygiene and oral health (15Trusted Source).
Gingivitis, tooth decay, film on the tongue, food debris, and a build up of bacteria can lead to the unpleasant mouth odor (15Trusted Source).
If you struggle with bad breath, oil pulling with coconut oil may help. Coconut oil contains antimicrobial properties that may rid the mouth of odor-causing bacteria. What’s more, it may help to reduce build-up of food debris on the teeth, inner cheeks, and tongue (16Trusted Source).
A randomized pilot trial observed a significant reduction in organoleptic breath assessment and self-reported breath scores after oil pulling with sesame oil. Coconut oil contains similar saponification and antimicrobial properties to sesame oil, which may lead to similar results (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).
That said, randomized controlled trials specifically on coconut oil are needed.
SUMMARY
Coconut oil’s antibacterial properties may reduce harmful mouth bacteria that lead to tooth decay, plaque buildup, and bad breath. However, more research is needed.
How to oil pull with coconut oil
Oil pulling is a growing trend, but it’s not a new concept. In fact, the practice of oil pulling started in India thousands of years ago.
Oil pulling is the act of swishing oil in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes and then spitting it out. In other words, it’s like using oil as a mouthwash.
Here’s how to do it:
Put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth.
Swish the oil around for 15–20 minutes, pushing and pulling it between teeth.
Spit out the oil (into the trash since it can clog sink pipes).
Brush your teeth.
The fatty acids in the oil attract and trap bacteria so each time you oil pull, you’re removing harmful bacteria and plaque from your mouth.
It’s best to do this right away in the morning, before you eat or drink anything.
Here’s more detailed info about how oil pulling can improve your dental health.
SUMMARY
Oil pulling is the act of swishing oil in your mouth for 15–20 minutes and then spitting it out. It removes harmful bacteria and plaque.
WERBUNG
Oral hygiene tips
While oil pulling with coconut oil can be a great addition to your oral hygiene routine, it should not be a replacement for standard mouth care.
The best way to maintain a healthy mouth is to brush and floss your teeth twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste. Also scrape or brush your tongue and inner cheeks using your toothbrush or a gentle tongue scraper.
Additionally, drinking water throughout the day, limiting sugary beverages and foods, avoiding smoking, eating a nutritious diet, and visiting your dentist regularly are all effective strategies for a healthy mouth.
SUMMARY
While coconut oil may support a healthy mouth, it should not replace standard oral hygiene practices. Effective strategies include brushing and flossing twice daily, using a fluoride toothpaste, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding smoking.
The bottom line
Coconut oil has been used for centuries as an effective oral hygiene practice.
Current research suggests oil pulling with coconut oil (swishing oil in your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes) may reduce bad bacteria in the mouth, prevent gingivitis and tooth decay, and get rid of bad breath. That said, more research is needed.
If you’re interested in using coconut oil to promote a healthy mouth, be sure to do it alongside other oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing your teeth.
HEALTHLINE RESOURCE
March Is Sleep Awareness Month
Did you know that March is Sleep Awareness Month? Take some time this month to give yourself the gift of a good night’s rest. Healthline Sleep has routines and tips for better sleep. Really.
Does coconut oil get rid of yellow teeth?
Changes in the color of your teeth may be subtle and happen gradually. Some yellow color may be inevitable.
Teeth can look more yellow or darken especially as you age. As the outer enamel wears away, the yellowy dentin underneath becomes more visible. Dentin is the second layer of calcified tissue beneath the outside enamel layer.
If you’re looking to whiten your teeth, you do have some alternatives to conventional methods.
Please be careful with at-home whitening because you may damage your teeth if products are used incorrectly or for too much time. You may wear away too much of your enamel, which could put you at risk for sensitivity and cavities.
Remedies for yellow teeth
Here are seven natural options for getting rid of yellow teeth.
It may be best to choose a few treatments and rotate them throughout the week. Some of the suggestions below do not have research to support them, but have been proven to be effective by anecdotal reports.
Experiment to find a solution that works for you.
1. Brushing your teeth
Your first plan of action should be to brush your teeth more often and in the correct manner. It’s especially important that you brush after consuming foods and drinks that can lead to yellow teeth.
However, be careful with brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods and drinks. Brushing right away can make the acids brush away more enamel and lead to erosion.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes at a time. Make sure you get into all of the cracks and crevices. Brush your teeth gently in a circular motion to ensure you’re protecting your gums. Brush the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of your teeth.
Brushing with a whitening toothpaste has also been scientifically shown to whiten your smile, according to a 2018 study. These whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives that scrub the teeth to remove surface stain, but are gentle enough to be safe.
Using an electric toothbrush may also be more effective in removing surface stains.
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2. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
Using a paste made of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide is said to remove plaque buildup and bacteria to get rid of stains.
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after brushing with this paste. You can also use the same ratio of ingredients to make a mouthwash. Or, you can try baking soda with water.
You can purchase baking soda and hydrogen peroxide online. You can also buy 2012 study found that people who used a toothpaste containing baking soda and peroxide got rid of tooth stains and whitened their teeth. They showed significant improvements after 6 weeks.
A 2017 review of the research on toothpastes with baking soda also concluded that they’re effective and safe for removing tooth stains and whitening teeth, and can be used daily.
3. Coconut oil pulling
Coconut oil pulling is said to remove plaque and bacteria from the mouth, which helps to whiten teeth. Always shop for a high quality, organic oil, which you can purchase online, that doesn’t contain harmful ingredients.
Swish 1 to 2 teaspoons of liquid coconut oil in your mouth for 10 to 30 minutes. Don’t let the oil touch the back of your throat. Don’t swallow the oil as it contains toxins and bacteria from your mouth.
Spit it into the toilet or a wastepaper basket, as it could clog drains. Rinse your mouth with water and then drink a full glass of water. Then brush your teeth.
There are no specific studies that confirm the teeth whitening effect of oil pulling.
However, a 2015 study found that oil pulling using sesame oil and sunflower oil reduced gingivitis caused by plaque. Oil pulling could have a whitening effect on teeth, as plaque buildup can cause teeth to turn yellow.
Further studies on the effect of oil pulling with coconut oil are needed.
4. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can be used in very small amounts to whiten teeth.
Make a mouthwash by mixing 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 6 ounces of water. Swish the solution for 30 seconds. Then rinse with water and brush your teeth.
Shop for apple cider vinegar.
Research published in 2014Trusted Source found that apple vinegar has a bleaching effect on cow teeth.
However, it should be noted that it has the potential to cause damage to the hardness and surface structure of teeth. So, use it with caution, and only use it for short amounts of time. More human studies are needed to expand upon these findings.
5. Lemon, orange, or banana peels
Some people claim that rubbing lemon, orange, or banana peels on your teeth will make them whiter. It’s believed that the compound d-limonene and/or citric acid, which is found in some citrus fruit peels, will help to whiten your teeth.
Gently rub the fruit peels on your teeth for about 2 minutes. Make sure to thoroughly rinse out your mouth and brush your teeth afterward.
Scientific research proving the effectiveness of using fruit peels to make teeth whiter is lacking.
A 2010 studyTrusted Source looked at the effect of a toothpaste containing 5 percent d-limonene in removing teeth stains resulting from smoking and tea.
People who brushed with a toothpaste containing d-limonene combined with a whitening formula twice daily for 4 weeks significantly reduced smoking stains, though it didn’t remove long-standing smoking stains or tea stains.
Further studies are needed to determine if d-limonene is effective on its own. A 2015 study reported that DIY whitening with strawberries or using citric acid was not effective.
A 2017 study tested the potential of citric acid extracts from four different types of orange peel as a teeth whitener. They were shown to have varying abilities on whitening teeth, with tangerine peel extract achieving the best results.
Be careful when using this strategy because fruit’s acidic. The acid can erode and wear away your enamel. If you notice that your teeth are becoming more sensitive, please stop using this method.
6. Activated charcoal
You can use activated charcoal to remove stains from your teeth. It’s believed that charcoal can remove pigments and stains from your teeth because it’s highly absorbent. It’s said to also get rid of bacteria and toxins in the mouth.
There are toothpastes that contain activated charcoal and claim to whiten teeth.
You can purchase activated charcoal for teeth whitening online.
Open a capsule of activated charcoal and put the contents on your toothbrush. Gently brush your teeth using small circles for 2 minutes. Be especially careful in the area around your gums as it can be abrasive. Then spit it out. Don’t brush too aggressively.
If your teeth are sensitive or you want to limit the abrasiveness of the charcoal, you can dab it on your teeth. Leave it on for 2 minutes.
You can also mix activated charcoal with a small amount of water to make a mouthwash. Swish this solution for 2 minutes and then spit it out. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after using activated charcoal.
More scientific evidence is required to investigate the effectiveness of activated charcoal for teeth whitening. One paper published in 2019 found that charcoal toothpaste can whiten teeth within 4 weeks of use, but it wasn’t as effective as other whitening toothpastes.
Research has found that activated charcoal can be abrasive on teeth and tooth-colored restorations, leading to loss of tooth structure. This abrasiveness may make your teeth look more yellow.
If you wear away too much enamel, more of the yellowy dentin underneath will become exposed. Be cautious when using charcoal and charcoal-based dentifrices, especially because of the lack of evidence to prove its effectiveness and safety.
7. Eating fruits and vegetables with a higher water content
It’s said that eating raw fruits and vegetables with a high-water content can help to keep your teeth healthy. The water content is thought to cleanse your teeth and gums of plaque and bacteria that lead to yellow teeth.
Chewing on crunchy fruits and vegetables at the end of a meal may increase saliva production. This can help to remove food particles that are stuck in your teeth and wash away any harmful acids.
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While there’s no doubt that a diet high in fruits and vegetables is good for your dental and overall health, there’s not a lot of scientific evidence that supports these claims. That said, eating these healthy foods throughout the day certainly won’t do any harm.
A review published in 2019 found that vitamin C deficiency can increase the severity of periodontitis.
While the study didn’t look at the whitening effect of vitamin C on teeth, it links high-plasma vitamin C levels to healthy teeth. The research suggests that high levels of vitamin C can reduce the amount of plaque that causes teeth to become yellow.
A 2012 studyTrusted Source found that a toothpaste containing papain and bromelain extract showed significant stain removal. Papain is an enzyme found in papaya. Bromelain is an enzyme present in pineapple.
Further studies are warranted to expand upon these findings.
What causes yellow teeth?
There are many factors that can cause teeth to turn yellow.
Teeth can become yellow from:
certain foods or drinks, such as blueberries, red wine, coffee, or tea
a diet high in sugar and simple carbohydrates
smoking or chewing tobacco
side effects of certain medications and mouthwashes
age, as older adults are more likely to have yellow teeth
genetics
mouth trauma
excessive fluoride consumption
poor dental care and oral hygiene
chronic dry mouth or lack of saliva
WERBUNG
The bottom line
There are many at-home options you can try to whiten your teeth.
However, be cautious because you can damage your enamel or gums, which can lead to sensitivity and cavities. The best way to whiten your teeth is to prevent stains before they happen, continue to practice good oral hygiene, and have regular dental checkups.
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If you’ve tried these methods without success, your dentist may be able to help you determine if another treatment method may be a better option.
Dental care has come a long way over the past couple of decades. Advances in technology has greatly improved a variety of dental procedures, including teeth whitening. Another way technology has immensely benefited the dental industry is because nowadays people have the ability to hop online and research some of the best whitening methods available. Let’s take a look at the history of oil pulling as well as how to whiten teeth with coconut oil.
HISTORY OF OIL PULLING
Based on Indian traditional medicine, oil pulling goes as far back as 2,500 years. Based on the core concept of Ayurveda, which is a process that uses the oil to oil all the tissues in the body. Every day the oil is used to oil tissues from head to toe. And while hard evidence pointing toward the benefits of this practice is hard to come by, some studies have concluded there are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory advantages. Some people who perform oil pulling on their teeth — which involves swishing the oil in the mouth — choose to do so for as long as 20 minutes. And while there is no harm in doing so, some of these people report that it results in them feeling nauseous. If you experience nausea when oil pulling, consider doing it for only five minutes instead of the normally-recommended 20. And if need be, you can even use less oil than the recommended amount, which tends to be between a teaspoon and a tablespoon.
CAN COCONUT OIL WHITEN TEETH?
Ayurveda has been known to provide multiple benefits, including being a cure-all for various health conditions, including headaches, acne, and even hormone imbalances. It should be noted that Ayurvedic practices don’t always include the swishing around of coconut oil in your mouth. Some people opt for sesame or olive oil. Nonetheless, though, coconut oil has been raved for its teeth whitening capabilities. Pratima Raichur, an Ayurvedic practitioner in New York City with offices in SoHo, says that coconut oil does indeed help reduce plaque, prevent gingivitis, and can even help regulate bad breath. The oil pulling has proponents that are made of colonized bacteria, and because the bacteria is surrounded by fatty membranes, they are attracted to plaque, thus causing the plaque to become loosened; this not only leads to reduced plaque but whiter teeth, as well. Since there is little evidence to prove whether or not coconut oil can actually lead to whiter teeth, there is no evidence concluding that it leads to negative outcomes; this makes it all the more enticing to give it a try for yourself. Of course there are a variety of factors that can influence how effective coconut oil is in being able to make your teeth appear whiter, including the amount of coffee you drink as well as whether or not you drink wine (which is well-known for staining teeth). Here is a brief overview of using coconut oil to whiten your teeth:
It is very inexpensive, especially when compared to other whitening remedies
It soothes a dry throat
Helps to heal cracked and dry lips
Helps eliminate bad breath
It doesn’t foam in your mouth
Does not contain any harmful chemicals
Easy to use
Reduces inflammation in the mouth
Helps to heal bleeding gums
HOW TO WHITEN TEETH WITH COCONUT OIL
To whiten your teeth with coconut oil, you will need a teaspoon of the oil. Place the oil in your mouth and allow it to sit on your tongue until it liquefies. Now, start swishing it in your mouth for anywhere from five to 20 minutes. You will want to swish it around good, ensuring it touches all areas of your mouth, including your gums and teeth. Do not gargle the oil! When spitting out the oil, you can do so either in the trash or in your sink, but remember it does have the potential to clog sinks, so spitting it out in the trash is the best choice to make. You will probably want to rinse your mouth with warm water to get the taste of oil out. You can whiten your teeth with coconut oil every day if you want, but most people choose to do it only a few times a week. If you don’t want to swish the oil around in your mouth, you can always apply the oil to your toothbrush and simply brush your teeth.
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