Investigating Banana Peel & Teeth Whitening Claims
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Do banana peels have the ability to whiten teeth? This tasty fruit (and its skin) is packed with potassium and magnesium, two ingredients believed to encourage a brighter smile. But, can rubbing a banana peel on your teeth actually make a difference? The answer is most likely not.
Do banana peels whiten teeth naturally?
Anecdotal reports suggest that this ingredient has the ability to minimise surface stains and remove plaque. However, there is very limited evidence to back up claims that banana peels whiten teeth. The experts at Yorkshire Dental Suite would therefore not recommend wasting your time or money on something so unpredictable. That’s not to say that bananas don’t offer oral health benefits. Thanks to its nutrient-rich composition, the fruit can strengthen the enamel and neutralise acids produced by bacteria. This in turn helps to minimise the risk of tooth decay.
How to whiten teeth with banana peels
If you do wish to try whitening your teeth with a banana peel, the method is very simple. Rub the inside of the banana peel across the teeth for at least two minutes (remember to be gentle). Then, leave the banana remnants for around 10 minutes before rinsing your mouth. You can do this before or after brushing.
Other natural teeth whitening ingredients
Banana peel teeth whitening is just one way you may attempt to whiten your teeth from home. The ingredients below are also believed to have a brightening effect. If you are making your own DIY concoction, please do your research on the ingredients you are using and proceed with caution.
Ingredient | How it works |
|---|---|
Charcoal | Gently polishes the enamel to lift surface stains. |
Baking soda | Baking soda is naturally abrasive. It buffs the teeth for a brighter aesthetic. |
Turmeric | Thanks to its mildly abrasive, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, turmeric visibly minimises surface stains. |
Bicarbonate of soda | Similar to baking soda, bicarbonate of soda scrubs the enamel. |
Coconut oil | An antimicrobial ingredient used in ‘oil pulling’. |
The risks of DIY teeth whitening
When you choose an in-clinic teeth whitening treatment or a dentist-led product, all of the formulations have been extensively trialled to ensure user safety. You also have the support of a dental professional. On the other hand, when you are attempting a DIY teeth whitening remedy, you are at risk of using the wrong application technique or overusing an ingredient. This can then damage the enamel. Something else important to note is that any natural teeth whitening ingredients should not be used as a replacement for your typical teeth brushing routine. This is because the fluoride in your oral health care products play a vital role in the prevention of cavities and tooth decay.
Conclusion: Using banana peel for teeth whitening will not give you dramatic results. If you want a more dazzling transformation, choose a dental treatment instead. From our industry-leading teeth whitening kit to Nanofill Composite Bonding®, our exclusive cosmetic procedure, Yorkshire Dental Suite offers a wide range of treatments – enquire today.