preparing for unpredictable dental injuries

Posted on: 6 May 2015

There's no question that everyone wants sparkling, glimmering white teeth, but can you achieve that Hollywood-glam from the comfort of your own home? Is there a safe alternative to the dental chair? This article will explore the possibilities of some of the remedies that promise you the perfect smile.

Whitening With Strawberries

There is a popular rumor circulating on the Internet that either by eating strawberries or brushing with them and a mixture of baking soda you can naturally and effectively produce whiter teeth. Unfortunately, spiffing up your smile isn't that easy. Experts say strawberries lack the essential oxidation properties that actually break down the molecules of stains and discoloration.

If you mix your berries with baking soda, any improvements you might notice are more apt to be the result of extra brushing or the baking soda, not the fruit. Additionally, those results are likely only temporary, as you've only succeeded at cleaning the surface of teeth, not penetrated to where discoloration is really embedded.

Since strawberries are an excellent source of many nutrients, though, like fiber, phosphorous and potassium, you should enjoy them anyway. However, if you're looking for a fruit that will really fight tooth decay, try raisins. They are armed with phytochemicals, which fight bacteria found in plaque and fend off gum disease.

Using Pure Baking Soda

While baking soda is an age-old remedy for everything from sink stains to laundry odor, many people are using it as a whitening agent. Even toothpaste companies advertise the ingredient as a means to brighten and beautify, but does it really make your smile whiter? Yes and no. Although using it diluted with water will work away the day's debris, it may not have the power to disperse those long-time stains that have been causing you to hold back on smiling.

Also, baking soda can be an irritant to sensitive gums, as well as erode the enamel on the surface of teeth when it's overused or if it isn't mixed with enough water. Since it is capable of clearing away rust stains on your sink or tub, imagine how very powerful it truly is. Try mixing baking soda with an orally safe, three percent solution of hydrogen peroxide, until a runny paste is formed. Avoid a mix with too much solidity, as you're likely overdoing the baking soda. Water may also be used to diffuse the power of this powder, but may not be as effective as the peroxide. Don't forget to check with your dentist, first, if you have sensitivity issues.

Lemon Juice For Luminous Teeth

Another popular miracle worker on the world wide web for whiter teeth is the lemon. While it does contain hard-working elements capable of clearing away stains and odors, it may not be something you want to apply to your teeth directly or indirectly. Experts suggest the acidic properties in lemon juice far outweigh any whitening benefits; eating it too frequently likely contributes to enamel erosion.

While a little lemon in your water is helpful with digestion, you don't want to depend on it to improve the look of your teeth. Opt for refreshingly tart cranberries, instead, as they can actually prevent plaque from building up in your mouth! Be sure no sugar has been added, though, and be prepared to pucker up, as natural cranberries are as tangy and overpowering as the lemon, without the harmful side-effects to enamel.

While some methods of whitening may improve the color of your teeth, there's really no substitute for what a professional at a clinic like Willowdaile Family Dentistry can accomplish. The good news, though, is that once your dentist brings your teeth to the Nth level of glimmering white, your good habits and diligence will help to keep them that way.