Lemons have been used for thousands of years for culinary and cleaning purposes. The astringent nature of lemon juice, along with its antibacterial and bleaching properties, make lemons seem like the perfect all-natural tooth whitener. However, there is more to safely whitening your teeth than a lemon can offer.
Effects
Though lemon peel and juice can be effective teeth whiteners, because they contain high levels of acid, they are also effective at breaking down calcium in the enamel of your teeth, which will increase the risk of dental decay and nerve sensitivity, notes "The Book of Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants as Medicines."
Significance
Not only does putting lemon juice on the teeth for the direct purpose of whitening damage the enamel layer of your teeth, it also effects the teeth when used in food or drinks. Excessive lemon oil in your diet may contribute to dentine breakdown over time. Don't brush your teeth after consuming lemon products for at least 40 minutes to prevent further acid breakdown. Rinse your teeth well with water after consuming lemon products, advises "Natural Family Living: The Mothering Magazine Guide to Parenting."
Warning
Your overall health is related to your dental health. Using lemons to whiten your teeth may increase your risk of dental breakdown and gum disease, notes "Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality." Poor oral hygiene and gum disease has been shown to be correlated with poor circulatory and cardiovascular health, adds "Understanding and Applying Medical Anthropology."
Alternatives
Though lemon juice is not the best choice for natural tooth whitening, there are alternatives to commercial-grade dental whitening. Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda have been used for decades to promote a healthy, bright, stain-free smile, notes "Natural Family Living: The Mothering Magazine Guide to Parenting." As you brush and rinse stains away, you may experience some temporary tooth sensitivity. Consult your dentist for guidance should sensitivity occur.
Prevention
Any type of tooth whitening regime will be temporary in nature. To prolong the effects, avoid eating foods high in pigmentation, such as wine, cherries, coffee, tea and berries. The staining will be more prominent if the foods you consume have highly acidic ingredients, such as lemon juice and ascorbic acid. Drinking brightly pigmented juices with a straw can reduce staining as well.
References
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- "The Book of Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants as Medicines"; Matthew Wood; 1997
- "Natural Family Living: The Mothering Magazine Guide to Parenting"; Peggy O'Mara; 2000
- "Understanding and Applying Medical Anthropology"; Peter Brown and Ron Barrett; 2009
