ORAL HEALTH HACKS- AS seen On Social Media ( By Sherina Amin RDH) PART 2

We left you hanging for more DIY ideas.

Strawberries 

Claim: Contains malic acid which breaks down into enzymes that whitens teeth

Method: mash up strawberry and brush or rub on teeth for 2 minutes; alternatively mix 1 mashed strawberry and ½ teaspoon baking soda—brush on teeth and leave for 5 minutes, then brush with toothpaste afterwards

Reality: no evidence that this whitens teeth with or without baking soda

Bananas

Claim: rub peel on teeth to whiten 

Reality: no evidence it whitens; leaves more debris on teeth that needs to be brushed off

Lemons

Claim: whitens teeth

Method: mix equal parts lemon juice with baking soda and rub/brush on teeth: rub lemon peel on teeth

Reality: no evidence that it whitens teeth; plenty of evidence that its high acidity damages teeth

Apple Cider Vinegar

Claim: kills oral bacteria; whitens teeth

Methods: rinse with full strength or diluted or as a 2:1 mixture of vinegar and baking soda; rubbed directly onto tooth stains; mixed with baking soda and brushed on;

Reality: may whiten teeth a bit but decreases micro-hardness and causes enamel erosion

Salt water rinses

Claim: an antimicrobial rinse 

Reality: little scientific evidence, but we do know it promotes healing and decreases inflammation, infection, pain and mouth sores (to a certain extent)

- Not as effective as Listerine or chlorohexidine rinses for treating and preventing gingivitis

- no harm in using it, but may not be suitable for people with high blood pressure

Turmeric

Claim: has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

Reality: no scientific evidence it whitens, but may have some benefit in treating gingivitis

These last few hacks really should show you that no everything you read or see on social media is true. 

Please ask us the next time you are in for your dental visits. We will be happy to help.

Let us keep you smiling