Whitening Teeth With Coconut Oil And Baking Soda
Everyone wants a bright, white smile, but teeth can become discolored over time due to various factors such as aging, smoking, and consumption of certain foods and drinks. While there are many commercial teeth whitening products available, they can be expensive and may contain harsh chemicals. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can effectively whiten teeth, such as coconut oil and baking soda.
What Is Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is a natural oil extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking, and has gained popularity in recent years due to its many health benefits. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial properties and can help fight oral bacteria that cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
What Is Baking Soda?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white crystalline powder that is commonly used in cooking and baking. It has a slightly alkaline pH, which makes it effective in neutralizing acids that cause tooth discoloration. Baking soda is also a mild abrasive, which can help remove surface stains on teeth.
How To Use Coconut Oil And Baking Soda For Teeth Whitening
There are several ways to use coconut oil and baking soda for teeth whitening:
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around your mouth to remove toxins and promote oral health. To use coconut oil for oil pulling, simply put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for 15-20 minutes. Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with water. You can also add a pinch of baking soda to the coconut oil for added whitening benefits.
Baking Soda Toothpaste
You can make your own toothpaste by mixing baking soda with coconut oil to form a paste. Simply mix equal parts baking soda and coconut oil until you get a smooth paste. Use this paste to brush your teeth as you would with regular toothpaste.
Baking Soda Mouthwash
You can also make a mouthwash by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with a cup of water. Swish this mixture around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out. This can be done after brushing and flossing to help freshen breath and promote oral health.
Precautions
While using coconut oil and baking soda for teeth whitening is generally considered safe, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:
- Coconut oil solidifies at temperatures below 76°F, so it may be necessary to warm it up before use.
- Baking soda can be abrasive, so it should be used with caution to avoid damaging tooth enamel.
- Oil pulling should not be done for longer than 20 minutes, as it may cause jaw or mouth fatigue.
Conclusion
Coconut oil and baking soda are natural remedies that can effectively whiten teeth and promote oral health. They are affordable, easy to use, and free from harsh chemicals. However, it is important to use these remedies with caution and to consult with a dentist if you have any concerns about your oral health.
