People in Orem try many hacks to whiten their teeth. From charcoal to baking soda, they’ve tried it all! Yet just because an ingredient is natural doesn’t mean it’s not harmful. The average “in-your-cabinet” ingredient can harm your teeth. Here’s how.

Fruits

Fiction

You can make your teeth whiter by using household food items that are acidic like lemons, contain digestive enzymes like mangoes, or an abrasive item like baking soda.

Fact

Fruit and vinegar are acidic, and acid wears away your enamel. Your enamel is a thin layer protecting your teeth from cavities and sensitivity.

Scrubs

Fiction

To make your teeth white, scrub ingredients like activated charcoal or baking soda on your teeth.

Fact

Using too abrasive ingredients can cause your teeth to look yellow. This is because too abrasive ingredients can wear away your enamel, leaving your dentin exposed. Your dentin is a softer, yellow tissue.

Spices and Oils

Fiction

To make your teeth white, swish a concoction of turmeric or coconut oil and water in your mouth.

Fact

There is no scientific evidence to support that coconut oil or turmeric whitens your teeth.