Editorial

7 Simple Ways to Naturally Whiten Your Teeth at Home

Published

9 years ago

October 16, 2017

There are plenty of products to choose from when it comes to whitening your teeth.

However, most whitening products use chemicals to bleach your teeth, which concerns many people.

If you want whiter teeth, but also want to avoid the chemicals, then this article lists many options that are both natural and safe.

What Causes Teeth to Look Yellow?

There are multiple factors that cause teeth to become dull and lose their bright, white sparkle.

Certain foods can stain your enamel, which is the outermost layer of your teeth. Additionally, plaque build-up on your teeth can cause them to look yellow.

This type of discoloration can usually be treated with regular cleaning and whitening remedies.

However, sometimes teeth look yellow because the hard enamel has eroded away, revealing the dentin underneath. Dentin is a naturally yellow, bony tissue that lies underneath the enamel.

Here are 7 simple ways you can naturally whiten your teeth.

1. Try Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian folk remedy meant to improve oral hygiene and remove toxins from the body.

The practice involves swishing oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria, which can turn into plaque and cause your teeth to look yellow.

Traditionally, Indians used sunflower or sesame oil for oil pulling, but any oil will work.

Coconut oil is a popular choice because it has a pleasant taste and offers many additional health benefits.

Coconut oil is also high in lauric acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

A few studies have shown that daily oil pulling effectively reduces bacteria in the mouth, along with plaque and gingivitis.

Streptococcus mutans is one of the primary types of bacteria in the mouth that cause plaque and gingivitis. One study found that daily swishing with sesame oil significantly reduced Streptococcus mutans in saliva in as little as one week.

Unfortunately, there are no scientific studies to prove that oil pulling whitens your teeth. However, it’s a safe practice and definitely worth a try. Many people claim their teeth are whiter and brighter after regular oil pulling.

To oil pull, put 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and push and pull the oil through your teeth. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, so you may need to wait a few seconds for it to melt. Continue the oil pulling for a full 15–20 minutes.

Be sure to spit the coconut oil into a toilet or trash can, as it could return to solid form once in your drain pipes and cause a clog.

Unlike many other tooth whitening methods, coconut oil pulling does not expose your teeth to acid or other ingredients that erode the enamel. This means it is safe to do daily.

2. Brush With Baking Soda

Baking soda has natural whitening properties, which is why it’s a popular ingredient in commercial toothpaste.

It’s a mild abrasive that can help scrub away surface stains on teeth.

Additionally, baking soda creates an alkaline environment in your mouth, which prevents bacteria from growing.

This is not a remedy that will whiten your teeth overnight, but you should notice a difference in the appearance of your teeth over time.

Science has not yet proven that brushing with plain baking soda will whiten your teeth, but several studies show that toothpaste with baking soda has a significant whitening effect.

One study found that toothpastes containing baking soda were significantly more effective at removing yellow stains from teeth than standard toothpastes without baking soda. The higher the concentration of baking soda, the greater the effect.

Furthermore, a review of five studies found that toothpastes containing baking soda removed plaque from teeth more effectively than non-baking soda toothpastes.

To use this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water and brush your teeth with the paste. You can do this a few times per 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 for years to disinfect wounds because of its ability to kill bacteria.

Many commercial whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, although at a much higher concentration than you will use.

Unfortunately, there aren’t any studies to show the effects of rinsing or brushing with hydrogen peroxide alone, but several studies have analyzed commercial toothpastes containing peroxide.

One study found that a toothpaste containing baking soda and 1% hydrogen peroxide led to significantly whiter teeth.

Another study found that brushing with a commercial toothpaste containing baking soda and peroxide twice per day led to 62% whiter teeth in six weeks.

However, there are some questions regarding the safety of hydrogen peroxide.

While heavily diluted concentrations appear safe, strong concentrations or overuse can cause gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. There’s also concern that high doses may cause cancer, but this has not been proven.

One way to use hydrogen peroxide is as a mouthwash before you brush your teeth. Make sure you are using a 1.5% or 3% solution to avoid side effects.

The most common concentration of hydrogen peroxide at the drugstore is a 3% solution. You can easily dilute this concentration to 1.5% by mixing equal parts peroxide and water.

Another way to use hydrogen peroxide is by mixing it with baking soda to make a toothpaste. Combine 2 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and gently brush your teeth with the mixture.

Limit the use of this homemade paste to a few times per week, as overuse can erode your tooth enamel.

4. Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries as a disinfectant and natural cleaning product.

Acetic acid, which is the main active ingredient in apple cider vinegar, effectively kills bacteria. The antibacterial property of vinegar is what makes it useful for cleaning your mouth and whitening your teeth.

One study performed on cow teeth found that apple cider vinegar does have a bleaching effect on teeth. However, they also found that vinegar may soften the teeth.

The acetic acid in vinegar has the potential to erode the enamel on your teeth. For this reason, you should not use apple cider vinegar every day. You should also limit the amount of time that apple cider vinegar is in contact with your teeth.

To use it as a mouthwash, dilute it with water and swish it around in your mouth for several minutes. Make sure to rinse your mouth with plain water afterwards.

5. Use Fruits and Vegetables

A diet high in fruits and vegetables may be good for both your body and your teeth.

While they’re no substitute for brushing your teeth, crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can help rub plaque away as you chew.

In particular, strawberries and pineapple are two fruits that have been claimed to help whiten your teeth.

Strawberries

Whitening your teeth with a strawberry and baking soda mixture is a natural remedy that has been made popular by celebrities.

Proponents of this method claim that the malic acid found in strawberries will remove discoloration on your teeth, while the baking soda will buff away stains.

However, this remedy has not been completely backed up by science.

While strawberries may help exfoliate your teeth and make them appear whiter, they are unlikely to penetrate the stains on your teeth.

A recent study found that a strawberry and baking soda mixture produced very little color change in teeth, compared to commercial whitening products.

If you decide to give this method a try, limit its use to a few times per week.

Despite studies showing that a strawberry and baking soda paste had a minimal effect on tooth enamel, excessive use could cause damage.

To use this remedy, smash up a fresh strawberry, combine it with baking soda and brush the mixture on your teeth.

Pineapple

Some claim that pineapple can whiten teeth.

A study found that a toothpaste containing bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, was significantly more effective at removing tooth stains than a standard toothpaste.

However, there is no evidence that eating pineapples produces the same effect.

6. Prevent Tooth Stains Before They Happen

Your teeth naturally yellow as you age, but there are some things you can do to prevent stains on your teeth.

Limit Staining Foods and Beverages

Coffee, red wine, soda and dark berries are infamous for staining teeth.

That doesn’t mean you have to completely avoid them, but you should limit the amount of time these substances are in contact with your teeth.

If possible, drink beverages known to stain teeth out of a straw to prevent direct contact with your teeth.

Moreover, brush your teeth soon after consuming one of these foods or beverages to limit their effects on the color of your teeth.

Additionally, avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, both of which can cause tooth discoloration.

Limit Sugar in Your Diet

If you want whiter teeth, cut back on your sugar intake.

A diet high in sugar supports the growth of Streptococcus mutans bacteria, the primary type of bacteria that causes plaque and gingivitis.

When you do consume a sugary food, brush your teeth soon after you eat.

Get Plenty of Calcium in Your Diet

Some tooth discoloration is caused by enamel eroding away and exposing the dentin underneath, which is yellow in color. Therefore, anything you do to strengthen the enamel of your teeth will help keep your teeth pearly white.

Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, cheese and broccoli, may help protect your teeth from enamel erosion.

7. Don’t Underestimate the Value of Brushing and Flossing

While some tooth discoloration comes naturally with age, it is largely a result of plaque build-up.

Regular brushing and flossing can help your teeth stay white by reducing bacteria in your mouth and preventing plaque build-up.

Toothpaste gently rubs out stains on your teeth, and flossing removes bacteria that lead to plaque.

Regular dental cleanings can also help your teeth stay clean and white.

However, most dentists offer whitening treatments that are much stronger than these natural remedies. They involve bleaching the teeth, which may be more effective for severe tooth discoloration.

Cover Story

Elizabeth Nzisa: The Firstborn Who Became a Mother Overnight

Published

4 weeks ago

March 19, 2026

bodywisegardens.com

While most teenagers spend their days focused on school, friendships, and dreams for the future, Elizabeth Nzisa, fondly known as Shiku, was forced to grow up much faster than she ever imagined. At only 17 years old, she found herself taking on the role of a mother to her three younger siblings after her family was hit by tragedy not once, but twice.

Her story, shared in an emotional interview, is a powerful reflection of strength, sacrifice and the deep bond between siblings. Elizabeth recalls the moment her life changed completely. Her mother died while giving birth to their youngest sibling, a baby boy. In the middle of that painful loss, their father walked away from the family, leaving Elizabeth alone with a newborn and two other young children to care for.

Mama yetu alipass 2024, Feb. Alipass akipata haka katoto kadogo. Dad naye akatuacha akaenda

Becoming a Mother Too Soon

She explains that she had no choice but to step up and become the parent in the house. She raised her youngest brother from the day he was born, and to this day he calls her mum, not knowing she is actually his big sister. That detail alone shows how much responsibility she carried at such a young age. She became the provider, the protector, the caregiver, and the emotional support for her siblings while she was still trying to understand life herself. With little help from relatives, Elizabeth had to find ways to survive, balancing school when she could, doing small jobs and making sure her siblings were fed, safe and loved.

The journey was not easy. She faced financial struggles, emotional exhaustion, and the pressure of trying to stay strong even when she felt overwhelmed. There were moments when she doubted herself and wondered if she was doing enough. Still, her story is not about defeat. It is about endurance. Elizabeth talks about finding strength through faith, support from the people around her, and the determination to keep her family together no matter how hard things became.

Over the years, she made sure her siblings stayed in school, had food on the table, and grew up feeling loved despite everything they had lost. What could have been a completely broken home became a family held together by her sacrifice and commitment.

Many viewers reacted emotionally, saying the story moved them to tears. Some described firstborn daughters as second mothers, while others said her life shows the kind of courage people rarely see but should never forget.

Click here to read our March issue 2026

Cover Story

Elizabeth Nzisa: The Firstborn Who Became a Mother Overnight

Published

4 weeks ago

March 19, 2026

bodywisegardens.com

Mama yetu alipass 2024, Feb. Alipass akipata haka katoto kadogo. Dad naye akatuacha akaenda

Becoming a Mother Too Soon

Click here to read our March issue 2026

Cover Story

Endometriosis and sex: How to make intimacy pain-free

Published

1 month ago

March 11, 2026

bodywisegardens.com

There is no doubt that endometriosis can affect a woman’s way of life. The condition slews a couple of conditions, painful sex being one of them. Penetration pulls and pushes any tissue growth behind the vagina and lower uterus.

Although symptoms may differ from woman to woman, here are some things you can do to lessen your pain and ensure you have some good time:

Take a dose of painkillers

Take an over the counter painkiller that sits well with your body before intercourse and incase pain persists, take another one as prescribed.

Track your cycle and try at certain times of the month

Most women with endometriosis experience excruciating pain during their period and ovulation. Keep track of your cycle so that you can know when you are ovulating. You can use apps like my calendar and flo period tracker to track your periods. This will help you know when best to engage in sexual intercourse.

READ ALSO: Crucial Facts About Endometriosis Everyone Should Know About

Use lube

Vaginal dryness is not something to be ashamed of and if you happen to have it, lube should be your best buddy. Make sure to use any silicon or water based lubricant anytime you feel like your vagina is dry. Ensure the application is of good amount to achieve a wet area.

Explore alternatives

Talk with your partner about things that turn you on and bring you pleasure. Just to mention a few; mutual masturbation, foreplay, kissing and mutual fondling. Sex does not have to mean intercourse.

Try different positions

Experimenting different positions can teach you and your partner which ones hurt and the ones that bring direct pleasure with no or less pain. Positions that are considered better vary from person to person so take the time to explore and learn yourself with your partner.

Find the right rhythm

Finding the right rhythm can help you experience less discomfort during sex. Quick thrusting or deep penetration can aggravate pain. Talk to your partner about that which you do not like and find ways that will satisfy the both of you like exchanging positions so that you can control the speed and rhythm.

Bottom line

Intimacy does not have to be boring, painful or make you hate the condition that you have. Talk openly about your feelings around sex and penetration and what would help to ease your concerns.

Our FREE e-paper March Issue is here!

As we celebrate our women this month, we bring you the best stories and the most inspiring features to get you going.

Click HERE to read!