How to whiten sensitive teeth naturally

If you’ve ever experienced tooth sensitivity, you know that it can be a real pain – literally. Many people opt for teeth whitening treatments to brighten their smiles, but these can exacerbate sensitivity, leaving you with discomfort in addition to a brighter grin. Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies you can use to help whiten your teeth without aggravating sensitivity. Here’s a look at some of the best options.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Before we get into the natural remedies for whitening sensitive teeth, it’s important to understand why teeth become sensitive in the first place. Sensitivity occurs when the enamel on your teeth is worn down or when your gums recede, exposing the dentin beneath. Dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to the nerves in your teeth, which can cause pain or discomfort when exposed to stimuli like cold or hot temperatures, acids, and pressure.

While tooth enamel can wear down over time due to things like acidic foods, tooth grinding, and aging, gum recession is often the result of poor dental hygiene or gum disease. Regardless of the cause, sensitive teeth can make eating and drinking uncomfortable, and can even impact your quality of life.

Whitening Sensitive Teeth with Natural Remedies

Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies that can help whiten your teeth safely and effectively, without exacerbating sensitivity. Here are a few to try:

1. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth for several minutes, then spitting it out. While oil pulling is often touted for its detoxifying benefits, it can also help to whiten teeth by removing surface stains and promoting healthy bacterial growth in the mouth.

To try oil pulling for whiter, healthier teeth, simply swish one tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil around in your mouth for 10-20 minutes. Spit the oil out in the trash, rinse your mouth with warm water, then brush your teeth as usual.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common ingredient in natural toothpastes and whitening treatments thanks to its ability to scrub away surface stains without damaging tooth enamel. Simply mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, then brush your teeth with it for 2-3 minutes. Rinse your mouth thoroughly, then brush with your regular toothpaste to remove any residual baking soda.

Note that while baking soda is generally considered safe for teeth, it can be abrasive when used excessively or with too much pressure, so use it sparingly.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cooking that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These same characteristics make it a great natural teeth whitener since it can help to reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth while polishing teeth.

To use turmeric for teeth whitening, simply mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough water to form a paste. Brush your teeth with the paste for 2-3 minutes, then rinse your mouth thoroughly and brush with your regular toothpaste.

4. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a popular natural teeth whitener thanks to its ability to absorb impurities and toxins from the mouth. While charcoal may seem like an unlikely candidate for oral health, it can actually be quite effective when used properly.

To whiten your teeth with activated charcoal, simply wet your toothbrush and dip it into a small amount of activated charcoal powder. Brush your teeth with the charcoal for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Note that charcoal can be messy, so be sure to spit carefully and rinse your sink well after using it.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in many commercial teeth whitening products, but it can also be used on its own for natural teeth whitening. The peroxide works by breaking down stains and discoloration on the teeth, leaving them looking brighter and more radiant.

To use hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening, simply mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water in a small cup. Swish the solution around in your mouth for 1-2 minutes, then spit it out and rinse your mouth thoroughly.

In conclusion, whitening sensitive teeth naturally is not only possible--it can also be easy and inexpensive. Try incorporating some of these natural remedies into your daily routine, and you may find that you're able to brighten your smile without any pain or discomfort.