However, there are some questions regarding the safety of hydrogen peroxide. One study found that a toothpaste containing a higher amount of hydrogen peroxide was more effective at whitening teeth after 12 weeks than toothpastes that contained a lower amount ( 15).Īnother study found that a toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide was more effective than other types of toothpaste - including charcoal-containing and abrasive toothpastes - at reducing tooth discoloration caused by coffee ( 16). No studies have investigated the effects of rinsing or brushing with hydrogen peroxide alone, but several studies have analyzed commercial toothpastes containing peroxide. Many commercial whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, although at a much higher concentration than you will use at home. In fact, people have been using hydrogen peroxide for years to disinfect wounds because of its ability to kill bacteria. Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that also kills bacteria in your mouth ( 14). To use this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon (6 grams) of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water (5 ml) and brush your teeth with the paste. One study found that toothpastes containing baking soda were significantly more effective at reducing plaque, gum inflammation, and bleeding more than regular toothpaste without baking soda ( 12).įurthermore, another review concluded that toothpastes containing baking soda may be more effective at removing stains and whitening teeth than other types of toothpaste ( 13). Science has not yet proven that brushing with plain baking soda will whiten your teeth, but several studies show that toothpaste containing baking soda can improve dental health and may have a whitening effect. This isn’t a remedy that will whiten your teeth overnight, but you should notice a difference in the appearance of your teeth over time. It’s a mild abrasive that can help scrub away surface stains on teeth ( 10, 11).Īdditionally, baking soda creates an alkaline environment in your mouth, which prevents bacteria from growing ( 10). This means it’s safe to do daily.īaking soda has natural whitening properties, which is why it’s a popular ingredient in commercial toothpaste. Unlike many other tooth whitening methods, coconut oil pulling does not expose your teeth to acid or other ingredients that erode the enamel. Continue the oil pulling for 15–20 minutes.īe sure to spit the coconut oil into a toilet or trash can, as it could return to solid form once in your drain pipes and cause a clog. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, so you may need to wait a few seconds for it to melt. To oil pull, put 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of coconut oil in your mouth and push and pull the oil through your teeth. Many people claim their teeth are whiter and brighter after regular oil pulling. However, it’s a safe practice and worth a try. No scientific studies have proven that oil pulling whitens your teeth. One study found that daily swishing with coconut oil significantly reduced Streptococcus mutans after two weeks and was as effective as an antimicrobial mouthwash ( 9). Streptococcus mutans is one of the primary types of bacteria in the mouth that cause plaque and gingivitis. The practice involves swishing oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria, which can turn into plaque and cause your teeth to look yellow ( 5).Ĭoconut oil is a popular choice because it has a pleasant taste and offers many health benefits.Ĭoconut oil is also high in lauric acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria ( 6, 7).Ī few studies have shown that daily oil pulling reduces bacteria in the mouth, along with plaque and gingivitis ( 6, 8). Oil pulling is a traditional remedy, originating in India, meant to improve oral hygiene and remove toxins from the body.
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