Turmeric is a root that has a bright orange or mustard color. It is usually dried, ground into a powder, and stored for a long time. Turmeric has been used for centuries in cooking because of its health benefits and woody flavor, especially in curries.
The main ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has antioxidant, antibacterial, and healing properties. While turmeric is useful for health when eaten or applied to the skin, there is little proof that it can whiten teeth.
However, studies show that applying turmeric to the gums can help heal them, reduce plaque, and improve oral health by fighting bacteria and infections. But don’t expect it to be an effective teeth whitener.
Coconut Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an old method of cleaning teeth that started in India. It involves swishing a tablespoon of oil—such as coconut, sesame, or any edible oil—around in your mouth for up to 20 minutes.
This practice helps reduce harmful bacteria, remove plaque, and improve oral health. Since plaque can make teeth look yellow, regular oil pulling may help your teeth appear whiter if you have plaque buildup. However, it is not very effective for removing stains from coffee or smoking.
Strawberries for Teeth Whitening
You might have heard that strawberries can help whiten teeth, but is it true?
Strawberries contain an enzyme called malic acid, which has natural bleaching properties. When applied to teeth, it can make them look whiter. A common method is to mash a strawberry, mix it with baking soda, apply it to your teeth for two minutes, then rinse. This can brighten your smile, but there’s a downside.
Malic acid is a mild acid that can wear down enamel if left on too long. Since enamel protects your teeth, using this method too often can cause damage. It’s safe only in moderation, and for long-term whitening, it’s best to choose a safer alternative.
On the bright side, strawberries are rich in vitamin C, magnesium, and calcium, which are great for teeth and gum health. While they might not be the best whitening solution, eating them can still support your oral health.
Natural Teeth Whitening Powders
Charcoal for Teeth Whitening
Charcoal has been used for cleaning teeth for centuries and has recently become popular online. It is made by slowly burning wood, coconut husks, or similar natural materials and then grinding them into a fine powder.
Because charcoal is mildly abrasive, it can help scrub away plaque, making teeth look whiter if the yellowing is due to plaque buildup. However, there is little proof that it can remove deeper stains.
Using charcoal too often can damage your enamel, the protective layer of your teeth. Once enamel wears down, teeth become more sensitive and prone to damage. So while charcoal may give temporary whitening results, it’s best to use it cautiously and not as a regular method.
Baking Soda for Teeth Whitening
Baking soda is often used as a natural teeth cleaner by mixing it with water or lemon juice to make a paste and applying it to the teeth. The American Dental Association considers baking soda safe, but it is not a strong teeth-whitening agent.
Like other natural remedies, it works mainly for mild plaque and surface stains. However, because baking soda is slightly abrasive, using it too often can wear down enamel, which protects your teeth. So while it can help with some discoloration, it’s best to use it in moderation.
Homemade Whitening Powders
Many homemade teeth whitening powders are made by mixing ingredients like baking soda, charcoal, turmeric, sea salt, calcium carbonate powder, or bentonite clay with essential oils like peppermint. Some may also include antibacterial ingredients like clove for added benefits.
While these mixtures help remove bacteria, clean teeth, and scrub away plaque, they are not effective for deep stains beyond the enamel. Since most of these ingredients are abrasive, frequent use can wear down enamel, making teeth more sensitive, prone to discoloration, and at higher risk for cavities and decay.