How to whiten your teeth? 

Whiter teeth, like thick, shiny, hair, is something that many people in our cosmetically driven world desire today. In fact, Americans spend over $1.4 billion dollars in over-the-counter teeth whitening products every year-that’s a good chunk of money just to achieve a different shade of teeth. I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve tried OTC teeth whitener-I even paid to have my dentist do it once. It worked for a bit, but my teeth got so sensitive I couldn’t stand it.
He added, “Teeth whitening treatments have been popular in the United States for many years, but it’s only now that India’s started to embrace them. All major brands like Colgate, Pepsodent, Sensodyne, Himalaya have introduced their line of whitening toothpastes and customers are reaching out.”

What causes discolouration?

You can run, but you can’t hide. The same can be said about disturbingly yellow teeth. Your teeth are covered with a smooth enamel that is naturally white. When that wears out it becomes translucent and reveals the lower layer called ‘dentil’ that is yellow in colour. The enamel wears out over time but certain habits, dietary and otherwise can accelerate it.

1. Too much tea or coffee – Drinking too much tea or coffee stains the teeth. Not only do they erode the enamel but they also make the teeth stickier which causes food particles to latch on.

2. Sugary drinks – This one’s a double whammy. It’s a mix of acidity and sugar, both of which are bad for the teeth. If you still want a glass or two once in a while then we suggest you drink quickly instead of sipping on it over a long period of time and rinse your mouth after.

3. Smoking – This is probably the worst cause for tooth decay and discolouration. It damages the teeth beyond repair. Not only does it make them yellow, in some cases it also leaves behind permanent grey marks that can’t be removed.

4. Brushing right after eating –  This might seems harmless and even good but dentists suggest you drop this habit. The acid and sugar produced when we eat weakens the enamel temporarily and brushing it at the time weakens it further. Ideally, wait for half an hour or more or brush before eating and rinse your mouth after the meal.

How to get pearly whites at home
There are a number of effective treatments in the market but they’re not exactly easy on the pocket or worth the pain. If you’re seeking more traditional ways of going a shade lighter then we’ve got you some solid advice.

1. Baking soda – Mix very little baking soda with water and pour it over your tooth brush before you start brushing. Or apply it using your finger tips and leave it on for about 1 minute. Baking soda can work wonders for your teeth but be sure to use it sparingly or it can erode the enamel.

2. Fruit Peel – Rub your teeth with the inside of a banana peel or orange peel. The peel is rich in magnesium, manganese and potassium which recharges the enamel. Brush your teeth a few minutes later and use the peel at least twice a week.

3. Eat your way to white teeth – Include a lot of crunchy vegetables like apples, carrots and celery in your diet. They’re sharp and abrasive which means they’ll rub against the surface of your teeth without harming the enamel. Also consume a lot of milk and milk based products as they increase pH levels and re-minelarize the teeth enamel, leaving behind a stunning shine.

4. Apple cider vinegar – Give your teeth a nice rub with apple cider vinegar, rinse off thoroughly and repeat for a few days to get that sparkling white smile.

5. Brushing and flossing – According to Dr. M S Sidhu, “Brush your teeth twice a day for about 2 minutes each. Ensure your brush has soft/medium bristles that don’t damage the gum. A lot of Indians don’t take flossing too seriously but its time they did. Flossing can improve all stains overtime, especially the ones between your teeth.”
“Enamel is made of vertical glass-like rods which is why when you brush from side to side it can damage the enamel. Brush in small circles to avoid weakening of the teeth.”

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