If you spend any time online, you’ve probably seen plenty of DIY projects and at-home tips, tricks, and “hacks” for all sorts of things. Since almost everyone wants a brighter smile, there are plenty of trendy do-it-yourself teeth whitening methods on the internet, including everything from brushing with activated charcoal to teeth scraping. However, a new teeth whitening “hack” is gaining popularity: turmeric. Can this common pantry staple get you the brighter smile you’ve always wanted? Here’s what you need to know about the connection between turmeric and teeth whitening.
What Is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that is often found in curry. It adds a peppery taste and a unique flavor to many dishes around the world, especially in India. But this popular pantry spice isn’t just used for cooking. The turmeric plant has been used for its medicinal properties for many generations, however, it’s only recently become a trend to use as an at-home teeth whitening method.
Can Turmeric Whiten Teeth?
While there are plenty of people online who swear that turmeric is the best way to get whiter teeth, the professionals and researchers of the American Dental Association do not agree. According to numerous studies, there isn’t any scientific evidence to support the idea that turmeric can effectively whiten teeth. While it is considered a safer alternative to other trends like charcoal, there is no proof that it can actually remove stains and discoloration from enamel.
Does Turmeric Provide Any Oral Health Benefits?
While turmeric may not be able to address your tooth discoloration, research shows that it can potentially improve the health of your smile. The National Library of medicine reports that the turmeric plant exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, all of which can help you manage oral health conditions like:
- Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease
- Gum tenderness, soreness, or sensitivity
- Gum inflammation or puffiness
Other studies have found that turmeric can remove gum disease-causing plaque and bacteria just as effectively as store-bought mouthwash and that it can relieve minor toothaches. While using turmeric in your oral healthcare routine should not replace regular brushing and visiting your dentist, this common spice may make an excellent addition to your at-home dental care.
What’s the Best Way to Whiten My Teeth?
Countless home remedies for teeth whitening have become popular because they appear to be fast, cheap, and effective. Unfortunately, most prove only to offer subpar results, if any, and can potentially cause oral health issues, making them a waste of time and money in the end. If you want a brighter smile, you can do so affordably, quickly, and easily by visiting your dentist.
With the help of modern dental practices, it’s never been a better time to get a professional teeth whitening treatment. At-home treatments can take as little as a single hour, while professional whitening kits can help you achieve your results from the comfort of home. These options are designed to minimize tooth sensitivity and use trusted ingredients for practically guaranteed results. Plus, as one of the most cost-effective cosmetic treatments available, it’s easy to see why professional teeth whitening is so popular! If you want a brighter smile, talk to your dentist today.
About the Practice
At Super Dental of Fitchburg, we strive to make every aspect of achieving and maintaining the smile of your dreams as pleasant as possible. We’re proud to offer all the latest cosmetic dental treatments, from teeth whitening to veneers, to help you overcome any level of dental discoloration. Plus, with numerous payment options and appointments available in both the evenings and on weekends, it’s never been easier to get the high-quality dental care you deserve. To learn more about teeth whitening, we invite you to contact us online or at (978) 342-8500.