The Truth Behind “Natural Whitening” Fads. | Hickman NE Dentist

68372 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 the care of our dentist in 68372. 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 doctor for a recommendation for what kind of whitening will be best for your needs. For more information about whitening, contact our dental office in Hickman, NE.

Family 1st Dental of Hickman
Phone: (402) 792-3000
650 Chestnut Street, Suite 2
Hickman, NE 68372

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Hickman Dental Office

Dentist Hickman

Hickman Location

650 Chestnut - Suite 2,
Hickman, NE 68372

(402) 792-3000

Family First Dental - Dr. Rachel Tiejten

Our Dental News

Dentist Hickman

Top 5 Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth | Hickman Dentist

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining your oral health. What you eat can either strengthen your teeth or contribute to dental problems. By making smart food choices, you can support your smile for years to come. Here’s a […]

Learn More

How to Maintain Your Oral Health While on Vacation | Dentist in Hickman

Vacations are meant to be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but they can sometimes throw off your regular oral hygiene routine. At Family 1st Dental in Hickman, we understand how easy it can be to let your dental care […]

Learn More

Cracked Teeth and How to Avoid Them | Hickman Dentist

A cracked tooth can be both painful and frustrating, affecting not just the appearance of your smile but also your ability to eat and speak comfortably. Whether caused by a sudden injury or wear over time, cracked teeth can lead […]

Learn More