Teeth color changes are often subtle and take place gradually. As you grow older, they can also become darker or look more yellow. The enamel layer wears away with time, which makes the yellow dentin, the layer right below the enamel, more prominent. Of course, some conventional methods prevent teeth discoloration, but what about the natural ways to whiten teeth at home? Let us find out.

1. Brush with baking soda
Baking soda helps you get rid of the stains on the tooth’s surface. Some people feel baking soda may be a bit harsh on the teeth and grind the enamel. However, studies have proven baking soda to be incredibly useful for stain removal. Baking soda helps in fighting bacteria, reducing plaque, and preventing tooth decay.

2. Eating fruits and vegetables
Adding fruits and vegetables to your diet with a high-water content can be extremely beneficial for keeping your teeth white and healthy. The water content in the fruits can help cleanse the gums and teeth. It will also enable you to get rid of the bacteria and plaque, which may be contributing to the yellowing of teeth. Moreover, when you chew on these water-filled veggies and fruits after a meal, it increases the mouth’s saliva content. As a result, the food particles stuck in the teeth are washed away. It also helps you get rid of the harmful acids from your mouth.

Moreover, vitamin-C rich foods can reduce your susceptibility to periodontitis. Increasing vitamin C consumption in the diet can also decrease plaque levels, which are responsible for the yellowing of your teeth. One study even proves that toothpaste with a good bromelain and papain extract can help overcome stains. Bromelain, an enzyme, is present in pineapple, while papain is found in papaya.

3. Oil pulling
Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic technique, wherein you take a tablespoon of oil such as olive oil, coconut oil, or sesame oil and swish around in your mouth for about 20 minutes. This will help pull out all the bacteria prevailing in your mouth. A study suggests that using coconut oil for oil pulling helps in preventing tooth decay.

4. Limit sugary foods
For naturally white teeth, it is advised to curtail your sugar consumption. This will include berries, sugary sodas, and red wine, as all of these are responsible for the dullness of your teeth. It, in no way, means that you need to avoid them altogether. Moderate consumption should work well. However, please know that if you have had a sugar drink once a day, you do not consume any more sugar-coated drinks or food items on the same day. This balance is necessary. Furthermore, it would help to avoid smoking as nicotine in cigarettes can make the teeth lose their white color.

So, these are a few natural ways to whiten teeth at home.