Whether you’re anticipating an upcoming photo shoot or just want to brighten your smile, this trick is super simple, is inexpensive, and best of all, it works. I’m a do-it-yourself kind of girl so I love uncomplicated techniques I can do, on my own, to get the results I want. Here is one of the best ways to whiten your teeth at home.
Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow?
One reason teeth yellow over time is due to plaque buildup. They can also become stained from cigarettes, coffee, tea, and other acidic substances. Wine, soda and sports drinks, especially the ones with artificial sweeteners, are offenders, as well.
Discoloration occurs over time from aging, and also tooth decay. The enamel, which is white, is worn down, causing the tooth to become translucent, revealing the dentin underneath. Dentin is naturally more yellow in tone.
Obviously, the older you are, the more decay you’re likely to have, and the yellower your teeth as a result. Take care of your teeth to slow down this process. The chemical properties inherent in charcoal bind and neutralize toxins in the mouth and teeth, resulting in a brighter smile and whiter teeth. It can also prevent tooth decay and alleviate bad breath. Its effectiveness is due to altering the pH in the mouth.
#CommissionsEarned
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal (AC) is quite a versatile substance. Who knew that a black powder could have so many benefits?! Not only can you whiten your teeth with it, it’s also a great option for food poisoning, drug overdoses, and hangovers. If you’re brave, you can even wash your hair with it. I think I’ll pass on the hair thing though. As you can see, it’s very black, and quite messy.
AC is very porous, with a negative electrical charge, giving it the ability to mop up toxins, free radicals, and other nasty chemicals, all of which have a positive charge. This is how AC traps toxic elements. It carries and excretes toxins out of the body without being absorbed. Hospitals use it as an alternative to stomach pumping, which attests to its effectiveness.
I sent a bottle of AC capsules with my kids when they traveled overseas in case they wound up with food poisoning. Fortunately, they didn’t have to use it. It’s an essential supplement to have on hand. It can even prevent drug overdoses.
I find it interesting that it’s made from a mixture of coconut shells, saw dust, olive pits, and other natural substances. It’s processed at high temperatures, which causes it to become activated. Coconut shells? Really? You’d never guess from looking at it.
The Best Way To Whiten Your Teeth At Home Using Charcoal
Please be aware up front that AC is abrasive. You don’t want to get in the habit of using it too often as it can wear away the enamel and dentin. Also, brush very lightly, with very little pressure, when whitening your teeth at home to prevent erosion.
If you have long hair, put it in a pony tail. Do this procedure over a sink. You’ll see why when you do it for the first time. Take care not to get it on grout or clothing, as it can stain.
- Get a small cup and fill it with an inch or so of water
- Open up an activated charcoal capsule and dump it in the water. If you’re using powder, use approximately a teaspoon
- Now take your toothbrush and dip it in the mixture
- Make sure you’re doing this over your sink
- GENTLY brush the AC on your teeth, paying close attention to the front ones that have the most staining
- Time yourself for one minute or two minutes. I wouldn’t go longer than this
- Spit and rinse thoroughly – don’t be alarmed if your lips are black. They will be but it will wipe off
You’ll have to wash your sink, but don’t worry, the AC won’t stain it. It cleans up nicely. Now flash yourself a big smile in the mirror. Are your teeth whiter? It may take two or three applications in order to see a difference, depending on the degree of discoloration you have. Pretty easy, right?
You can buy AC in capsule form, or powder form here. Or check out this activated charcoal toothpaste. Oh, and don’t forget to pull it out in cases of food poisoning and histamine reactions. It also works great for naughty dogs who eat something they shouldn’t.
Key Points
Activated charcoal has many uses, one of them being a great way to remove plaque from your teeth, while brightening and whitening your smile. And who doesn’t want a killer smile for their next photo shoot? Take care to not use activated charcoal too often, as it’s abrasive, and could harm your teeth. What are you waiting for? Give it a try today, then you’ll really have something to smile about.
Have you been looking for a natural way to whiten your teeth? Have you used activated charcoal before? Let me know in the comments:)