Last Updated on December 21, 2022 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
According to a YouTube video, applying a daily combination of coconut oil and turmeric to the teeth can effectively whiten them. We verified the claim. Our findings reveal that the assertion is Mostly False.
The Claim
A YouTube video titled “How to Whiten Teeth, DIY, Turmeric, and Coconut Oil” suggests that brushing your teeth with a paste containing coconut oil and turmeric can whiten your teeth.
Fact Check
What is the significance of tooth whitening?
Tooth whitening refers to any method of lightening the color of a tooth. Whitening could be accomplished through either physical stain removal or a chemical reaction to lighten the tooth color. Teeth whitening is usually a risk-free, life-enhancing procedure that could improve one’s physical appearance as well as psychological health. Teeth whitening is a low-cost procedure that boosts an individual’s self-esteem, smile, and overall appearance.
Is it possible to whiten your teeth by brushing them with coconut oil and turmeric?
No, not for now. There are numerous teeth-whitening options available that whiten the teeth naturally. However, there is insufficient evidence to support these methods.
Coconut oil is preferred because it is high in lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This is why it is so popular for plaque removal and gum disease treatment. Furthermore, oil pulling with coconut oil aids in the swishing of Streptococcus mutans, thereby preventing tooth decay. Although it is a safe option, there is insufficient evidence to support its effectiveness as a tooth-whitening agent.
Turmeric is also notable for its additional oral healthcare benefits. Turmeric is a well-known anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial herb that can be used at home to help with dental care. Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease. It aids in the removal of plaque and the maintenance of good oral hygiene. It may also help relieve tooth pain and prevent head and neck cancer. Despite its numerous benefits, turmeric is not considered a reliable substitute for medically assisted cosmetic teeth whitening therapies. Turmeric should not be used as a replacement for general oral health care because the evidence is not substantial.
On asking our dental expert, Dr. Pooja Bhardwaj, about teeth whitening with turmeric and coconut paste, she responded, “A paste of coconut oil and turmeric is a popular DIY. Turmeric has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that clean the gums, teeth, and oral cavity while also removing impurities. It has to be kept in mind that turmeric belongs to the ginger family and has an abrasive nature, which might damage the enamel of teeth when used frequently. Coconut oil, on the other hand, has no whitening effect and has an unpleasant taste. For safe teeth whitening, always seek professional dental advice.”
Is at-home teeth whitening more effective than professional whitening?
Not Exactly. Almost everyone develops some degree of tooth discoloration or staining over time. This tooth staining could be caused by consuming coffee or red wine; smoking or chewing tobacco; taking certain medications; or even suffering a dental injury. Furthermore, some causes of tooth discoloration are beyond their control. There are, however, several teeth whitening procedures available. These primarily include professional and at-home teeth whitening procedures.
Professional whitening may be more beneficial because it works faster and has a long-lasting whitening effect. Although the professional procedure may necessitate more visits, professional dental whitening products may be more potent than at-home products. Furthermore, in-office treatments may be beneficial for receding gums or sensitive teeth.
It should be underlined that pregnant and nursing women, people with restorations and cavity fillings, children under the age of 16, and people with gum disease, sensitive teeth, and allergies to professional whitening products should all avoid professional tooth whitening procedures.
THIP MEDIA TAKE: There are, however, several natural methods for teeth whitening. The majority of these remedies gently remove surface stains from the teeth, but there is insufficient evidence to support their efficacy. Professional whitening treatments, on the other hand, are much more efficient than these natural remedies. Therefore, we conclude that the assertion is mostly false.
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