In your quest for a brighter, whiter smile, you may have decided that you would like to try some natural, at-home remedies to get the job done. However, just because these methods are natural, this does not mean that they are safe. Below is more information on two home teeth whitening methods you should avoid because they dangerous to your dental health.
Rubbing Lemon Juice on Your Teeth
One method of whitening your teeth at home involves rubbing lemon juice on the surface and leaving it on your enamel. The concept behind this remedy is that the citric acid will not only break down tartar and plaque, but it will also bleach your teeth until they are vibrant white.
However, the citric acid in lemon juice can cause extreme damage to your enamel. Because of the high acidity of the juice, using this whitening method repeatedly can strip your teeth of minerals and cause erosion of your enamel. As a result, your teeth will become more sensitive and weaker, making them more prone to breakage and cavities.
Brushing Your Teeth with Activated Charcoal
Another up-and-coming home whitening method for your teeth that has gained media attention involves brushing them with activated charcoal. The premise behind using charcoal as a whitener stems from the material's ability to pull toxins from the teeth. Therefore, any stains, bacteria, and tartar are pulled away right along with the harmful substances.
The person who started this trend reports that since hospitals use it for poison victims, it is safe and effective for use as a whitener. However, this claim is far from the truth.
While it is true that activated charcoal is used to help absorb toxins and poisons in the human body and can save someone's life, it is not meant to be used on a person's teeth as a whitener. Along with the toxins on the surface of the enamel, the charcoal also pulls out moisture and minerals.
After using this method over a period of time, your teeth would become highly sensitive and extremely brittle. Eventually, you may experience cracks or even have a piece of your tooth break off.
Although it may seem easy and natural to whiten your teeth at home, some remedies out there could actually destroy your teeth. If you want your teeth whitened correctly without causing damage, make an appointment with your cosmetic dentist to discuss professional options that are safer and healthier for your teeth.
Share18 February 2018
Toddlers should see a dentist for the first time by the age of twelve months or by the time their first tooth comes in. But if you are a parent with toddlers anything like mine, the prospect of going to the dentist (let alone anywhere!) can be pretty intimidating. My kids were a handful growing up. They had tantrums any time we would have to sit in a waiting room, and they refused to get in the dentist's chair during their first few visits. So, I had to employ a professional to help me make the transition to finally getting them in that dental chair without all the screaming and crying. I know I'm not the only parent in this situation, so I decided to share the information I've learned with others who can use a little help. You can find all my advice right here on these pages!