You can whiten your teeth naturally at home using products found in grocery stores. However, there is no science behind these methods. According to a survey, 80% of adults aged 18-49 want whiter teeth and reportedly spent more than $1 billion on at-home whitening products in 2016. There are many teeth whitening products that you can choose from. However, most whitening products use chemicals to whiten your teeth, which can be dangerous for many. If you want whiter teeth but also want to avoid chemicals, this article lists many options that are both natural and safe. What causes teeth to look yellow? Several factors cause the teeth to become cloudy and lose their shine and whiteness. Certain foods can stain your enamel, which is the outermost layer of your teeth. Additionally, plaque buildup on your teeth can cause them to appear yellow. This type of discoloration can usually be treated with scaling and bleaching. How to whiten teeth naturally? However, sometimes teeth appear yellow because the hard enamel is eroded and the underlying dentin is exposed. Dentin is a natural yellow bone tissue that is located under the tooth enamel. 1. ### lubricate Oil pulling is a traditional treatment that originates from India and is done to improve oral and dental health and remove toxins from the body. This involves swishing the oil around your mouth to remove bacteria that can turn into plaque and cause your teeth to look yellow. Coconut oil is a popular choice because of its pleasant taste and many health benefits. Coconut oil is also rich in lauric acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. Several studies have shown that daily oil brushing reduces bacteria in the mouth, along with plaque and gingivitis. Streptococcus mutans is one of the primary types of bacteria in the mouth that causes plaque and gingivitis. One study found that daily consumption of coconut oil significantly reduced Strep mutans after two weeks and was as effective as an antimicrobial mouthwash. Unfortunately, no scientific studies have proven that oil pulling will whiten your teeth. However, as a traditional Indian remedy, it is worth trying. Many people claim that their teeth become whiter and brighter after regular oil pulling. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, so you may need to wait a few seconds for it to melt. For oil pulling, put 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of coconut oil in your mouth, press the oil onto your teeth, and brush your teeth with your tongue or hands. Continue oiling for 15 to 20 minutes. Unlike many other teeth whitening methods, coconut oil pulling does not expose your teeth to acid or other substances that erode tooth enamel. This means that it is safe to take daily. 2. ### Wipe the toothbrush with baking soda Baking soda has natural whitening properties, which is why it is a popular ingredient in consumer toothpaste. Baking soda is a mild cleanser that can help remove surface stains on teeth. Additionally, baking soda creates an alkaline environment in your mouth that prevents bacteria from growing. This is not a method that will whiten your teeth overnight, but you should notice a difference in the appearance of your teeth over time. Science has yet to prove that brushing with baking soda will whiten your teeth, but several studies show that toothpaste containing baking soda can improve dental health and may even have a whitening effect. One study found that toothpastes containing baking soda were significantly more effective in reducing plaque, gingivitis, and bleeding than regular toothpastes without baking soda. Additionally, toothpastes containing baking soda may be more effective at removing stains and whitening teeth than other types of toothpaste. To use, mix 1 teaspoon (6 grams) of baking soda with 2 teaspoons (5 mL) of water and brush your teeth with the resulting paste. You can do this several times a week. 3. ### use hydrogen peroxide Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that also kills bacteria in your mouth. In fact, people have been using hydrogen peroxide to disinfect wounds for years because of its ability to kill bacteria. Many commercial whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, but unfortunately, no studies have examined the effects of rinsing or brushing with hydrogen peroxide alone, but several studies have analyzed commercial toothpastes containing peroxide. Toothpastes containing more hydrogen peroxide were more effective at whitening teeth after 12 weeks than toothpastes containing less hydrogen peroxide. Another study showed that toothpastes containing hydrogen peroxide are more effective in reducing tooth discoloration caused by coffee than other types of toothpastes, including toothpastes containing charcoal. 4. ### Eat fruits and vegetables A diet rich in fruits and vegetables may be good for both your body and your teeth. While they aren't a substitute for brushing, raw, crunchy fruits and vegetables can help remove plaque when you chew. Strawberries and pineapple are two fruits that are claimed to help whiten your teeth. #### Strawberry Teeth whitening with a mixture of strawberries and baking soda is a natural method popularized by celebrities. Proponents of this method claim that the malic acid in strawberries will remove discoloration on your teeth and that baking soda will remove stains. However, this treatment is not fully supported by science, and while strawberries may help exfoliate your teeth and make them appear whiter, they are unlikely to penetrate stains on your teeth. If you decide to try this method, limit it to a few times a week. To use this treatment, mash a fresh strawberry, mix it with baking soda and rub the mixture on your teeth. #### Pineapple Some claim that pineapple can whiten teeth. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, can help remove stains from teeth. However, there is no evidence that eating pineapple produces the same effect. 5. ### Prevent stains before they happen While your teeth will naturally yellow as you age, some things can help prevent staining. #### Limit foods and drinks Coffee, red wine, soda, and dark berries are known to stain teeth. This does not mean that you should avoid them completely, but you should limit the amount of time these substances are in contact with your teeth. If possible, drink teeth-staining drinks through a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth. Additionally, brush your teeth approximately 60 minutes after consuming one of these foods or beverages to limit their effect on your tooth color. Also, avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, as both can cause tooth discoloration. #### Limit your sugar intake If you want whiter teeth, reduce your sugar intake. A diet high in sugar supports the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the primary type of bacteria that causes plaque and gingivitis. When you consume a sweet food, be sure to brush your teeth quickly. #### Get plenty of calcium in your diet Some discoloration of the teeth is caused by the erosion of the tooth enamel and the exposure of the underlying dentin, which is yellow. So, anything you do to strengthen your enamel will help keep your teeth white. Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, cheese, and broccoli, may help protect teeth from enamel erosion. ### Don't underestimate the value of brushing and flossing While some tooth discoloration occurs naturally with age, it is largely the result of plaque buildup. Regular brushing and flossing can help your teeth stay white by reducing bacteria in your mouth and preventing plaque build-up. Toothpaste gently removes stains from your teeth and flossing removes plaque-causing bacteria. Regular dental cleanings can also help keep your teeth clean and white.