Table of contents:
- Is it true that turmeric can whiten teeth?
- Is the way to whiten teeth with turmeric dangerous?
- How to whiten teeth with turmeric
- 1. Add turmeric powder when brushing your teeth
- 2. Make homemade turmeric toothpaste
- 3. Use turmeric powder for teeth whitening
Turmeric has abundant benefits. The bright yellow color of turmeric can enhance the color of the food. In addition, turmeric also contains the active ingredient curcumin which is believed to treat inflammation and relieve pain. In fact, turmeric is also often used as a natural ingredient for whitening teeth. However, is it true that the way to whiten teeth with turmeric is effective? Find out the answer below.
Is it true that turmeric can whiten teeth?
One tablespoon of turmeric powder contains protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, manganese, iron, and vitamin C. The complete nutritional content of turmeric makes turmeric a popular herbal medicine.
A 2012 study showed that the curcumin in turmeric clears plaque and bacteria and relieves inflammation comparable to traditional mouthwashes. Then, another study in 2013 found that turmeric, which has antimicrobial and anticancer properties, can relieve tooth pain due to periodontitis and reduce the risk of oral cancer.
Several studies have also compared the efficacy of turmeric with baking soda and activated charcoal for whitening teeth. Unfortunately, research is not accurate enough to prove that this method of whitening teeth with turmeric actually works.
Is the way to whiten teeth with turmeric dangerous?
"The use of turmeric to whiten teeth may be safer than charcoal which is more abrasive," said drg. Langley, a dentist in Yorkshire, as reported by Metro.
Even so, not everyone is safe to use turmeric, especially in people who have allergies. You shouldn't use turmeric as a way to whiten your teeth primarily. Continue to consult your doctor about oral and dental health, at least every 6 months.
How to whiten teeth with turmeric
There are several ways to whiten teeth with turmeric. It is recommended not to use it more than once per day. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the container and your hands when using turmeric. Use an apron so that the turmeric doesn't stain your clothes. Here's how to use turmeric to lighten tooth color, such as:
1. Add turmeric powder when brushing your teeth
This is the easiest and most affordable way to do it. You need to prepare turmeric powder, a new toothbrush, mint leaf extract. Then, follow the steps below:
- Pour a little turmeric powder and a drop of mint leaf extract in a container.
- Wet the toothbrush with water and dip the toothbrush in the container filled with the turmeric mixture.
- Then, brush your teeth and leave it on for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water and then brush your teeth again with toothpaste.
2. Make homemade turmeric toothpaste
You can also make your own toothpaste by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder with 1/8 teaspoon of liquid coconut oil.
After brushing your teeth with this toothpaste, don't forget to rinse your mouth thoroughly. Then, continue brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste. If you don't want to bother, you can buy toothpaste products with added curcumin.
3. Use turmeric powder for teeth whitening
In addition to making your own toothpaste, you can buy turmeric-based teeth whitening powder right away. How to use it the same as adding turmeric powder to toothpaste.