Coconut oil pulling has gained popularity as a natural remedy for oral health, including teeth whitening. However, despite the claims and anecdotal evidence, scientific research shows that coconut oil alone cannot whiten teeth effectively. Any article that tells you otherwise is most likely not written by dentists, nor is it based on science. In this article, we will explore why coconut oil cannot remove both extrinsic and intrinsic stains, which are essential for achieving whiter teeth. Additionally, we will provide alternative methods for teeth whitening that have proven to be more effective and less expensive.
Why Can’t Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth?
Before debunking the myth of coconut oil whitening teeth, it is first important to understand why teeth get stained in the first place. There are two main types of staining: intrinsic staining and extrinsic staining.
Extrinsic Staining
Extrinsic staining occurs on the surface of the enamel (the outermost layer of your teeth) l and can be removed through mechanical brushing with whitening toothpaste. These cases of yellow teeth staining are usually healthy and easily reversible with the use of regular brushing and flossing of teeth.
Unfortunately, coconut oil lacks the necessary properties to act as an effective extrinsic stain remover. Unlike toothpaste, coconut oil is not abrasive (rough to the touch) and does not contain the necessary ingredients to abrade away stains mechanically.
In contrast, whitening toothpaste contains abrasives, such as hydrated silica or calcium carbonate, that physically remove the surface stains from the teeth. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry, researchers compared the effects of different abrasive agents on the surface roughness and stain removal of extracted human teeth. The results showed that all the abrasive agents could effectively remove the surface stains, with no significant differences in the amount of stain removal or the degree of surface roughness.
Intrinsic Staining
Intrinsic staining occurs when the stains penetrate deep beyond the surface of the enamel and cannot be removed mechanically through brushing. Intrinsic staining is typically caused by foods and drinks such as coffee, red wine, and tea. Other causes of intrinsic staining include smoking, certain medications, aging, and genetics. Like extrinsic staining, intrinsic staining is usually healthy and reversible with the proper whitening products.
Regarding coconut oil whitening intrinsic stains, several scientific studies have been conducted to determine its effectiveness. One study at The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry tested oil pulling with coconut, sesame, and sunflower. The study found that none of these oils had a significant whitening effect at all!
The only way to truly remove these types of stains is through the use of a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, which oxidizes the stains and reverses the yellowing. The use of hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening has been extensively studied and is both safe and effective. In a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, researchers compared the effects of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, another common bleaching agent, on the enamel and dentin of extracted teeth. The results showed that both agents were able to effectively whiten the teeth, with no significant differences in the degree of whitening or the amount of enamel or dentin loss.
What are Better Teeth Whitening Alternatives?
If you are looking for effective teeth whitening methods, stick to methods that are actually proven to work. Using anything else will most likely be a waste of time and money; you’ll have to spend money to whiten your teeth properly anyway. Several alternatives have been proven to effectively whiten your teeth:
At Home Options
At-home teeth whitening options will always be weaker than what a professional can offer. This is because they contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents and need to be used very carefully. Some of the most popular at-home whitening methods include:
- Whitening Toothpaste: Look for toothpaste containing abrasives and hydrogen peroxide, as these can effectively remove stains.
- Whitening Strips or Trays: Over-the-counter whitening products that contain hydrogen peroxide can help achieve whiter teeth.
- Whitening Pens: These pens allow you to target specific areas for whitening and often contain peroxide.
Professional Teeth Whitening
The most effective teeth whitening methods are provided by a professional. Professional teeth whitening uses higher concentrations of bleaching agents, and the process is carefully monitored to ensure safe usage. Professional teeth whitening can provide results in as little as one appointment and will last longer than at-home treatments. Some examples include:
- Custom-Made Trays: A dental hygienist will take an impression of your teeth and create custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth. The custom trays are filled with a whitening gel and placed over your teeth for a certain amount of time.
- Laser Whitening: This is an in-office whitening procedure that uses laser technology and hydrogen peroxide gel to quickly and effectively whiten your teeth.
- Non-Vital Whitening: This procedure is used on teeth that have had root canals. The whitening solution is applied directly to the tooth and activated with a laser or specialized light.
No matter which whitening method you choose, it is important to use the product correctly and only with the supervision of a dental professional.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, coconut oil is unable to whiten teeth due to its inability to mechanically remove extrinsic stains or chemically oxidize intrinsic stains. Scientific research has consistently shown that coconut oil pulling does not produce significant whitening effects. Instead, opt for proven teeth whitening methods such as whitening toothpastes, strips, trays, pens, or professional treatments that contain hydrogen peroxide. These options offer more effective and reliable ways to achieve a brighter smile while ensuring good oral health.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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