The Truth Behind “Natural Whitening” Fads | Chicago Heights Dentist

60411 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 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 60411. 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 Chicago Heights, IL.

Sparkling Smiles of Chicago Heights
Phone: (708) 755-2400
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2400 Chicago Rd.
Chicago Heights, IL 60411

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Sparkling Smiles

2400 Chicago Rd. Chicago Heights, IL 60411
Info@SparklingSmilesDentist.com
(708) 755-2400

Hours:

Monday: 9AM to 3PM
Tuesday: 9AM to 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM to 5PM
Thursday: 10AM to 6PM
Friday: 9AM to 5PM
Saturday 9AM to 3PM

  • America Dental Association
  • Chicago Dental Society

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Chicago Heights, IL Dentist

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The most friendly, attentive staff and doctors of any dental office I've EVER been to. They pay close attention to detail, your concerns, fears and customize appointments and treatment plans to fit you, your life and your budget. I am very particular about who I trust my money and family to and they will forever have my business. I just had cosmetic surgery on my teeth and I feel like a million bucks! Affordable, attainable, understandable and achievable! They service adults, children and the toughest grown cowards like me! Honestly, the best dentist office out there. Trust me, I've tried many! Don't wait! Get a consultation! Make your appointment! Call them now today!

Sarah Williams Chicago Heights, IL Dental Patient September 7, 2017

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