Does Coconut Oil Really Fix Everything? Can It Whiten My Teeth?

You may always be on the lookout for the latest and greatest scientific discoveries that can benefit your health and beauty. Coconut oil has been a hot topic in recent years. Some claim that it can aid in weight loss, prevent heart disease, treat urinary tract infections, and even whiten teeth! If you buy into all the hype, coconut oil sounds like a miracle drug. However, it’s important to be cautious. While we won’t speak on this oil’s effects on your overall health, we’re here to put our two cents in on what it can and can’t do for your smile.

How Do People Use Coconut Oil to Whiten their Teeth?

One beauty blogger brushes her teeth with a combination of coconut oil and turmeric a few times a week. The theory behind the practice is that since turmeric is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it’s great for oral health. She also says that it helps to remove plaque. The coconut oil reportedly helps to wash out stains.

Another teeth-whitening method involving coconut oil is a practice known as oil pulling, in which you melt a teaspoon of the oil and swish it around your mouth. Oil pulling has been around for centuries, and many people swear by it.

Does It Really Work?

There is good news and bad news. The good news is that using coconut oil on your teeth is unlikely to cause any damage. The bad news is that it won’t whiten your teeth.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that coconut oil has any benefits for oral health. Furthermore, swishing with or brushing with oil tastes icky and takes up time that you could be using on proven teeth whitening methods.

So What Is the Best Way to Whiten Teeth?

Don’t let your disappointment in coconut oil lead you to try other unproven methods of whitening teeth. Some people swish with hydrogen peroxide or apple cider vinegar, or they might think that lemon or orange peels can whiten teeth. While there may or may not be merit to these methods, why waste your time and efforts on something that you can’t be sure works?

The best way to achieve a whiter smile is to visit your Coatesville dentist for a consultation. You may be a candidate for professional in-office or at-home whitening. The in-office procedure takes only about an hour, and it produces dramatic results right away. Our at-home kits take a few days to offer noticeably whiter teeth, with the biggest difference happening after about two weeks.

Professional whitening is safe and effective, and it may be more affordable than you think. So skip the crazy whitening fads and trust your dentist to help you achieve the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted.

About Chester County Dental Arts

Drs. Mark Simeone and Ronni Bruck are pleased to provide dental services to folks in the Coatesville area. Our friendly approach and modern dental techniques can help you have a healthier, more attractive smile. If you have questions about professional teeth whitening, feel free to contact our office at 610-383-1600.