Last Updated on February 26, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A Facebook post suggests that teeth could be whitened by mixing black bean powder with lemon juice. We verified the assertion and found it to be false.
The Claim
In a Facebook post, it has been suggested that brushing your teeth for three minutes with a combination of lemon juice and black bean powder can give you white teeth.
We have conducted thorough research and have discovered on social media several claims regarding the efficacy of home teeth-whitening remedies, such as the use of banana peels, activated charcoal, and orange peels. We have verified the accuracy of these claims through meticulous fact-checking.
Fact Check
What does ‘teeth whitening’ refer to, and what is its significance?
Whitening teeth is an efficient way to bring out their inherent colour without risking damage to them. Discoloration or yellowing of teeth can be brought on by several factors, such as ageing, food preferences, and lifestyle choices, which can impact how individuals perceive themselves and interact with others. As a result, teeth-whitening procedures can help people achieve a brighter smile. In addition to improving looks, it also improves overall oral health and even self-confidence.
Moreover, teeth whitening might enhance oral hygiene habits because people tend to take better care of their teeth after receiving cosmetic procedures. Dentists overseeing professional teeth-whitening procedures ensure safe and efficient outcomes while lowering the possibility of enamel damage. Ultimately, teeth whitening not only improves the appearance of a person’s smile but also increases confidence and awareness of dental health, leading to a more fulfilling and active lifestyle.
Do black bean powder and lemon juice work well together to whiten teeth?
No, absolutely not. This is due to the paucity of scientific evidence proving that whitening teeth with a blend of lemon juice and black bean powder is beneficial.
Lemon juice is believed to have natural bleaching characteristics. It is primarily composed of citric acid, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin E, glucaric acid, folate, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and polyphenols. Since lemon juice is acidic, it can progressively erode tooth enamel. This increased erosion might increase tooth sensitivity, causing tooth damage and decay.
Black beans, also known as black legumes, are rich in phytochemicals like quercetin, kaempferol, anthocyanins, and saponins that have been shown to have antioxidant properties. In addition, black beans are an important source of proteins and resistant starch. They are said to improve digestion, aid in weight loss, prevent cancer, and prevent cardiac problems. Nevertheless, we were unable to find any concrete evidence supporting their use in tooth whitening.
Rather than having any whitening benefit, combining the acidic lemon with abrasive ingredients like black bean powder increases the risk of tooth injury.
Dentists advise patients to use safer teeth-whitening options, such as in-office procedures or prescription whitening solutions, which eliminate stains without weakening tooth enamel. Therefore, it is imperative to take into account the potential risks of directly applying acidic chemicals, such as lemon juice, to teeth, which include enamel erosion and increased sensitivity, as well as the possible harm that abrasive materials, such as black bean powder, could do to gums and tooth enamel.
When asked about the efficacy of using a combination of lemon juice and black beans for teeth whitening, Dr. Ketan Rajput, Periodontist, advised that there is no scientific backing for this method. He advised that lemon juice is highly acidic and can lead to tooth decay and enamel erosion by depleting the calcium in the teeth, especially if used frequently. Furthermore, Dr. Rajput said that although beans can stimulate salivary flow, which helps cleanse teeth and balance acids, the abrasive properties of black bean powder can damage teeth as well. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a dentist for proper advice.
Is self-whitening your teeth a reliable practice?
No, not, always. Please be aware that self-whitening of teeth entails lightening tooth colour at home using DIY techniques without a professional consultation. These techniques include gel-filled whitening trays, whitening toothpastes, whitening strips, and non-prescribed preparations like hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. These approaches might not yield the ideal outcomes as professional dental procedures, even though they can somewhat improve tooth brightness and lessen surface stains, not the intrinsic ones. Self-whitening products usually work by using peroxide-based compounds to bleach the teeth or by eliminating surface stains. It is critical to closely adhere to product guidelines in order to prevent gum inflammation or tooth enamel damage. Hence, it is best to check for safety and efficacy by visiting a dentist before beginning any teeth-whitening procedure.
How is professional teeth whitening performed?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry technique used to lighten the colour of teeth in order to improve their appearance. And a dentist is qualified to perform it. When a dentist performs in-office teeth whitening, the teeth are usually treated with a bleaching solution that is activated by a specific light. Whiter teeth are the outcome of the bleaching agent’s ability to remove discolorations and stains. This technique can yield substantial outcomes and usually takes an hour to complete.
It should be emphasised that not everyone is a good candidate for teeth whitening. The kind of stains, the state of the teeth, and any underlying dental issues can all affect the efficacy of the treatment. Hence, it is advised to see a dentist before beginning any teeth-whitening technique to ensure safety and optimal results.
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