1) Cheese is life!
Cheese is a well-loved food the world over because it’s delicious and foodporn-worthy! On top of that, it has a lot of health benefits — not the least of which is making your teeth stronger with its calcium and protein content.
2) Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is all the rage these days and for good reason! It natural probiotic content helps with a wide range of body issues, from stomach problems to wound healing. But did you know that it could also remove stains from coffee and nicotine? Just be careful, though — because of its acidity, you should dilute it with water when you use it as a mouth rinse, and don’t let it sit too long in your mouth.
3) Mashed strawberries
Actress Catherine Zeta-Jones swears by this secret! Although strawberries are quite heavily-pigmented, its natural acids can actually help eliminate food and drink stains. Just mash 4 to 5 strawberries and rub on your teeth for about half and hour, then rinse with water after!
4) Virgin coconut oil pulling
Another trendy product nowadays is virgin coconut oil! Its use has a wide range of benefits for the body, both internally and externally, and one of its most popular uses is teeth whitening. Use a spoonful and rinse your mouth with it for about 15 minutes, or simply rub it all over your teeth like toothpaste. The former even has the benefit of pulling out toxins stuck in your mouth!
5) Vegetables!
Vegetables do wonders not only for your overall health, but for your teeth, too! Crunchy veggies like celery and carrots help keep your teeth whiter because they can serve as mild “abrasive” agents that remove surface stains. They also promote saliva production, which also helps minimise discolouration.
6) Activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is being used in cleansing products lately, including toothpastes! Its main benefit is that it absorbs toxins ingested by the body — and it does the same with your mouth when you use toothpastes with this substance. Your teeth will turn black when you use it, but don’t worry because all you have to do is rinse it out!
7) Baking Soda and hydrogen Peroxide
These two have are time-tested and proven effective! Hydrogen peroxide kills germs while baking soda scrubs stains away. Mix small amounts of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and use it as a toothpaste to get rid of stains. But be sure to use it sparingly because too much can weaken teeth.
8) Change your toothbrush every 3 months
Dentists advise you to change your toothbrush every three months, right? You should know that it isn’t about selling more toothbrushes. After 3 months, the bristles get worn down, and the accumulated bacteria can actually be detrimental to oral health.
9) Brush, Brush, Brush!
And of course, there’s just absolutely no substitute for regular brushing! If you can do it after every meal, or after drinking coffee, tea, or wine, or after smoking, then do so! But if it’s not doable, then at least do it twice a day.