From The Straits Times    |

Photo: 123rf.com

This method to brighten your teeth is completely natural, the most effective homemade tooth whitener ever, and the best part is that you can find everything you need in your kitchen! There are actually two methods, however; the more pleasant smelling and tasting method and the super effective but not-so-pleasant tasting method.

For the more pleasant tasting and smelling method, you’ll need:

Basil leaves

Dried orange peels

Turmeric powder

Coconut oil

 

This may seem like a witches’ brew to you but hear me out! Here’s what you do:

Grind the basil leaves and the orange peels into a powder. If you can buy them in powdered form, it would save you a lot of trouble! Mix a tablespoon of each into a bowl.

Add two tablespoons of of turmeric powder and mix well.

Pour the coconut oil into the mix and stir into a paste that’s about the same consistency as toothpaste.

For this, you’re probably going to want to buy an extra toothbrush aside from your regular toothbrush, as the turmeric will stain the bristles.

Brush your teeth with this paste for about two minutes, then spit and rinse. Don’t panic! Your teeth will be stained by the paste, but once you brush again with your regular toothpaste the stains will come right off!

 

This completely natural home remedy is not only good for whitening teeth but for overall oral health! Basil combats any bad breath that you may have, and orange peels are a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Turmeric has anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that cultures all around the world have used to combat dental ailments. The best part is that the combination smells good!

Image: 123rf.com

For the super effective but the not-so-pleasant-tasting method, you’ll need:

Baking soda

Hydrogen peroxide

 

Take two tablespoons of baking soda and mix with hydrogen peroxide until you get a paste that’s about the same consistency as toothpaste. Brush thoroughly with the paste for about two minutes.

Brush again for 2 minutes with just clean, plain water

 

This method is by far the simplest of any teeth whitening technique, and the most effective! Yes, yes, I know that hydrogen peroxide is the same thing we use to clean wounds, but this chemical is actually naturally produced in our bodies. Hydrogen peroxide has bleaching properties, while baking soda breaks down topical stains and plaque on the teeth, and is slightly abrasive. The only thing to make sure of is to NOT swallow the mixture at all and only use this no more than three times a week, if not you risk breaking down the enamel of your teeth.

 

Both of these methods work and are super simple! Try a combination of them in a week and see what your results are. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least 15-20 minutes after eating in the morning and in the evening, so why not try these methods out?

 

If you liked this story, check out our stories 5 Things people get wrong when brushing their teeth and 5 oral supplements for firmer skin and shiny hair.

 

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