The Truth Behind “Natural Whitening” Fads | Dentist 02139

Dentist in Cambridge

02139 Dentist

It seems like there is a new headline nearly every week featuring someone who swears their teeth are whiter and brighter due to their natural home remedy for stain removal. These articles showcase the idea that teeth whitening can be cheap and easy, if in some cases unpleasant. It can be tempting to consider trying for brighter, whiter teeth without investing time and money on in-office or at-home whitening under a dentist’s care. However, before you pin your hopes on one of these “natural whitening” methods, take a look at the truth behind some of the recent fads.

Fad 1: Oil Pulling

Oil pulling has been cropping up in headlines for months with claims of a wide variety of potential health benefits. It is a very old folk remedy in which a person swishes a tablespoon of edible oil, such as coconut, sunflower, olive, etc., in their mouth and between teeth for up to 20 minutes daily.

Despite the number of years this practice has existed and the number of health issues it purports to treat, there is no evidence that oil pulling whitens teeth or improves health.

Fad 2: Fruits

Due to celebrity endorsement, some people have begun to try rubbing mashed strawberries on their teeth to try to achieve a whiter smile. Others are using lemon or orange peels, and still others tout the virtues of eating pineapple or swishing apple cider vinegar.

However, there is no science to support any of these claims. In fact, one recent study found that brushing with a mixture of baking soda (which is known to have whitening effects on teeth) and strawberries did not whiten teeth. Even worse, the citric acids found in all of these fruits and vinegars can actually be harmful to the enamel on your teeth.

Fad 3: Hydrogen Peroxide

While it is true that many forms of in-office and over-the-counter teeth whitening make use of hydrogen peroxide, there is more to consider before opening a bottle. The hydrogen peroxide used in professional teeth whitening, whether in-office or at-home, is mixed with other substances and provided in a form designed for use in teeth whitening.

Simply swishing from a bottle of hydrogen peroxide will have little or no effect on the whiteness of your teeth, but may cause irritation to your gums and mouth and can be dangerous if accidentally ingested.

If you want whiter, brighter teeth, there are safe and effective ways to achieve your goal. Talk with our dentist in 02139 for a recommendation for what kind of whitening will be best for your needs. For more information about whitening, contact our dental office in Cambridge, MA.

Sweet Spot Dental
Phone: (617) 945-1974
cash, credit card
763 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 1
Cambridge, MA 02139

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our
Cambridge Office

Cambridge, MA Dentist

763 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 1, Cambridge, MA 02139

Phone: (617) 945-1974

Email: Hello@SweetSpotDental.com

Hours:
Monday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday: By appointment only.

Read Our
Dental News

Cambridge Cosmetic Dentist

The Overlooked Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease – Protect Your Health | Cambridge Dentist

October 1, 2024

Heart disease is a leading health issue in the United States, and while many are aware of common risk factors […]

What is a Cosmetic Dentist? | Cosmetic Dentist Cambridge MA

September 15, 2024

What to Expect from Your Consultation with a Cosmetic Dentist in Cambridge MA Many people are surprised to learn that […]

Easy Flossing Alternatives to Preserve Your Healthy Smile | Cambridge MA Dentist

September 1, 2024

Effective Alternatives to Traditional Flossing: Tips from Your Cambridge MA Dentist Flossing is a crucial part of dental care, yet […]