DIY TEETH WHITENING 'FACTS'!

USING TRICKS TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH? HERE'S THE TRUTH!

Admit it, we all have considered whitening teeth at some point, who doesn't want that perfect white smile? People are obsessed with teeth whitening these days, also may be due to the surge of DIY teeth whitening methods and tricks posted online. But what most people are failing to understand are the cons and ineffectiveness of them. Let us break some myths about some tricks.


1. LEMON JUICE AND BAKING SODA.


  • Myth- This is the most common trend using household ingredients like lemons, oranges or apple cider vinegar which are naturally acidic along with an abrasive ingredient like the baking soda which will make the teeth appear whiter and brighter.
  • Fact- This is a total No-No! It's harmful to your teeth. Fruit consumption, in general, is great but the mixture is damaging. The lemon juice will erode your teeth due to its acidic nature and the baking soda will abrade your teeth and this altogether will lead to loss of your tooth enamel.

2. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL PRODUCTS.

  • Myth- This method claims to give you whiter and shinier teeth by scrubbing or brushing your teeth with the products containing activated charcoal.
  • Fact- According to the September 2017 issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association, there's no evidence that the products containing activated charcoal are safe or effective for your teeth. The bottom line, use of products containing charcoal which is too rough can cause wear of enamel, thus scrubbing it away and exposing dentin (inner layer-yellow tissue) itself.

3. OIL PULLING METHOD.

  • Myth- Online videos have made this DIY quite famous where you have to swish oils like coconut oil in your mouth with some spices like pungent turmeric powder. The method claims to zap stains from your teeth and make it appear whiter.
  • Fact- This method has no scientific fact or evidence to suggest that it works. However, swishing oil and using turmeric powder in the mix can actually loosen crowns and fillings by corroding the dental metals.

SO, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH?

Get professional help from the Dentist, it's the most effective one!


HOW CAN I MAINTAIN MY NATURAL WHITE TOOTH COLOR?

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes.
  • Always floss to clean your teeth.
  • Use IDA (Indian Dental Association) recommended whitening toothpaste.
  • Limit food/drinks that can stain your teeth (Example- tea, coffee, red wine, etc.)
  • Avoid smoking or tobacco use.
  • Regular visits to your dentist for checkups and cleaning.

"Professional advice is the best advice!"

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