Smiling isn’t just about looking happy—it’s a way of telling everyone that you feel confident and your teeth are strong. As the pursuit of a whiter smile gains popularity, individuals explore various natural remedies to enhance the brightness of their teeth. One such remedy that has gained attention for its potential teeth-whitening benefits is “TURMERIC.”
Scientifically known as Curcuma longa, it is a vibrant yellow spice with a bioactive compound called curcumin, known for its properties such as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. These characteristics have sparked curiosity about whether turmeric could play a role in teeth whitening. So, let’s together find out the truth behind this!
How Does Turmeric Affect Your Teeth?
A study published in the journal “Phytomedicine” found that curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, exhibited significant antibacterial activity against various oral bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, a major contributor to dental caries (tooth decay). Therefore, it is believed to play a role in teeth whitening through various mechanisms. While scientific research on this specific aspect is still in its early stages, some potential contributions of curcumin to teeth whitening include:
No More Bacterial Growth Buildup
Plaque is a sticky film that harbours bacteria and can stain teeth over time. Here, turmeric bioactive compound, has antimicrobial properties that inhibit bacteria growth in mouths and contribute to a cleaner and whiter appearance of teeth.
Minimises Gingivitis Risk
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease characterised by inflammation and bleeding gums. It can make your teeth appear darker and more sensitive. Studies suggest that turmeric protects the tooth enamel by reducing gum inflammation, reducing gingivitis risk and maintaining a brighter smile.
Antioxidant Action
The bioactive compound of turmeric is a potent antioxidant, capable of neutralising free radicals that can cause teeth to lose their natural colour, which results in the maintenance of white teeth by combating oxidative stress in the oral cavity.
Potential Stain Removal
Turmeric is known for its mildly abrasive nature. This property, combined with the potential for curcumin to interact with pigments, removes surface stains on teeth.
How to Add Turmeric to Your Daily Oral Routine?
Treatments like Veneers or porcelain for teeth undoubtedly have great results, but what if you try something even more handy? Turmeric! To brighten up those pearly whites.
Direct Use
Turmeric does have a distinct taste that not everyone loves. But don’t worry; you can fix that by adding peppermint or spearmint extract or two.
Get some good-quality pure turmeric powder.
Wet your toothbrush bristles and give them a dip in the powder.
Brush your teeth like you normally do, spreading that turmeric goodness on your gums and teeth.
Instead of rinsing immediately, let the powder hang on your teeth for at least five minutes.
After that, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Then, grab your regular toothpaste or whatever tooth-cleaning product you prefer, and brush again.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS!!
Don’t dip your toothbrush into the turmeric container to avoid spreading unwanted bacteria.
Just a heads up, though—this might take a bit more time than using those quick teeth whitening strips.
DIY Mouthwash
Below is the rundown on making the DIY mouthwash with things you probably have in your kitchen available. All you need to collect is;
1 cup of distilled water
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of cloves
2-3 drops of peppermint (add more if you’re all about that extra minty freshness)
Add turmeric powder and cloves into a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes to let all those good properties mix and mingle. Strain the mix, add the optional peppermint oil for that extra kick, and store it in a jar with a good seal.
Trick to Use:
Give it a good gargle for about a minute, then spit it out. Do this once a day, and you’ll be rocking fresh breath and happy gums all the time. Easy peasy!
Turmeric Based Toothpaste
If your lifestyle is so busy and you don’t have time to make these DIY, consider buying a toothpaste that already includes turmeric and curcumin. However, be aware that some commercial products don’t have a high concentration of turmeric, so the teeth-whitening effects are not as pronounced as using pure turmeric powder. The added convenience is a bonus; you won’t have to worry about your toothbrush turning yellow, which can happen when using straight turmeric powder.
So, you can still enjoy the benefits of turmeric without the DIY hassle. Also, if you want a quick makeover, go for “Teeth Veneers.”
Wrapping Up
Turmeric is a natural ingredient, so there’s less concern about potential side effects. So, no more hiding your laugh-out smile just because of teeth discolouration. Let your inner happiness shine through your SMILE itself!!
