Everyone loves having a bright, healthy smile, but using over-the-counter teeth whitening creams or even professional treatments can be pricey and intimidating. These treatments often contain strong chemicals that can increase tooth sensitivity and potentially damage tooth enamel and gums if overused.

Luckily, there are natural ways to whiten teeth and keep them healthy using non-toxic ingredients. Here’s an easy recipe for a homemade tooth whitening powder:

Ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons bentonite clay
– 3 tablespoons calcium carbonate powder
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon or more of stevia
– A few drops of peppermint or spearmint essential oil

Why These Ingredients?
– Bentonite Clay: This natural cleanser is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, which can help remineralize teeth and draw out toxins. It also helps reduce bacteria and freshens breath.
– Calcium Carbonate: Found in rocks like chalk and limestone, this mineral gently polishes teeth and removes stains without harming enamel. It also aids in remineralization by providing essential calcium.
– Baking Soda: A common alternative in toothpaste, baking soda gently removes plaque and creates an alkaline environment that helps eliminate bacteria.
– Peppermint Essential Oil: Known for combating bad breath, peppermint oil targets bacteria that cause halitosis and gum disease.

How To Make Tooth Whitening Powder:
1. Add four tablespoons of bentonite clay powder to a 4 oz glass jar.
2. Add two tablespoons of calcium carbonate powder.
3. Add one tablespoon of baking soda.
4. Optionally, add a tablespoon of stevia and mix well.
5. Add a few drops of spearmint or peppermint essential oil and mix well.

To use, dip a wet toothbrush into the powder and brush as usual. Make separate jars for each family member to avoid cross-contamination.

6 More Natural Ways To Whiten Teeth:
1. Oil Pulling: Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes daily to remove bacteria and clean teeth.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Use this potent vinegar once a week to bleach teeth and kill bacteria. Swish for 2 minutes, then rinse and brush well.
3. Strawberries: Mix mashed strawberries with baking soda to whiten teeth. Limit use to 1-2 times per week to avoid enamel damage.
4. Avoid Staining Drinks: Reduce consumption of soda, red wine, coffee, and dark teas. Drink through a straw and brush afterward to minimize stains.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide: Use a diluted concentration (1.5-3%) as a mouthwash once a week before brushing to bleach teeth and kill bacteria.
6. Brush & Floss Regularly: Maintain diligent dental hygiene by brushing and flossing to remove food buildup and stains. Schedule regular dental cleanings to stay on top of oral health.