Smiling is proven to boost your mood and make you a happier human. Having white teeth isn't the most important thing in this life but it definitely makes you want to smile that much more. To achieve a dazzlingly white smile we often turn to whitening products that have harsh and harmful chemicals that wear away the enamel of our teeth. If you want whiter teeth and fresher breath, here are 11 all natural, safe ways to do so. Let's get smiling!
1. Strawberries
It's true, they really whiten your teeth and they're DELICIOUS!
Directions:
Mash up 1-3 strawberries
Mix with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of sea salt
Brush your teeth with this magic formula, rise and smile!
2. Coconut Oil
There is a wonderful ancient health practice called "Oil Pulling" that I highly recommend giving a try. This remedy might be difficult to get used to if you're not a big fan of coconut but the health benefits are truly one of a kind.
Directions:
Before brushing your teeth in the morning, swish and "pull" about a tablespoon of organic virgin coconut oil around in your mouth and through your teeth for 15 minutes (WARNING, your mouth will get tired.)
Spit out, rinse and brush your teeth thoroughly. You'll feel amazing!
3. Tumeric
Tumeric is known for its amazing anti inflammatory properties and tremendous health benefits. You might want to dedicate a toothbrush to this remedy because the tumeric will stain your toothbrush with it's vibrant mustard yellow color.
Directions:
Make a paste out of a little bit of turmeric powder and water.
Brush your teeth, rinse and you're all set!
4. Baking Soda
This is the most common all natural teeth whitening remedy. Baking soda will help those teeth turn pearly white in no time!
Directions:
Mix a few teaspoons of baking soda with a little bit of water to make a paste.
Gently brush your teeth with the paste, leave it on your teeth for 1 to 3 minutes, rinse and you're ready to go!
5. Cut Down On Refined Sugars
Foods with refined sugar are damaging to your teeth. What you eat reflects in the color of your teeth.
6. Eat Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Who doesn't love a sweet strawberry or a piece of juicy watermelon or crunching on a cold carrot or some fresh cucumber slices?
7. All Natural Toothpaste
Most toothpaste contains harmful ingredients that actually wear enamel. Try out an all natural toothpaste like Tom's! I also LOVE Trader Joe's toothpaste.
8. All Natural Gum
A simple and convenient way to get rid of bad breath.
9. Flossing
It will make a huge difference in the way your breath smells. Who wants yucky old food in between their teeth?
10. Use A Straw
If you enjoy drinking coffee or tea try using a straw! It's not as likely those beverages will stain your teeth when you use a straw. Fun Fact: Drinking through a straw makes you calmer!
11. Don't Worry If Your Teeth Aren't Perfectly White
Love the natural shade of your teeth. These remedies will surely give you a whiter, brighter smile but a positive attitude will also give you greater self confidence.
*Even though these are safe remedies, please use some of them in moderation.