Studies show that people with straight, white teeth are often viewed as more attractive. One study digitally altered pictures of models, changing the spacing and color of their teeth. The teeth were digitally shaded brownish yellow, healthy white and startling white. Study participants rated the models depicted with yellow teeth as less attractive than those with white teeth. So apparently, the color of your teeth does matter. But a startlingly white smile is usually only achievable with a bleaching application. However, there are natural ways that you can improve the whiteness of your teeth. Here are a few:

Drink milk.

Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, may improve the look of your teeth by providing calcium. In the presence of fluoride ions, calcium is attracted back to the surface of the teeth. Along with phosphate, it can bind with fluoride to remineralize teeth.

Oil Pulling. 

Oil pulling is a practice that dates back over 2,000 years. Its foundation is based in Indian traditional medicine, which is known as "Ayurveda."

It involves swishing around a tablespoon of oil, such as coconut oil or sesame oil, in your mouth for up to 20 minutes and then spitting it out. If done daily, experts say that oil pulling may help remove stains from your teeth. In addition, if the oil pulling results in pinker, healthier gums, your teeth may appear whiter.

Brush with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.

The peroxide is not only antibacterial; it is a bleaching agent. In addition, the baking soda counteracts the acid in your mouth due to its alkaline pH. Baking soda also acts as a tooth polisher because of its lightly gritty texture.

To try this option, mix a small amount of baking soda and peroxide together to form a loose or runny paste. Dip your toothbrush into the mixture and brush your teeth as usual. When brushing with the whitening mixture, be sure not to scrub your teeth too hard. You don't want to damage your tooth enamel.

Brush with turmeric and coconut oil.

Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and bright yellow color. The spice, which is what gives mustard its characteristic yellow hue, can also be used to whiten your teeth. Mix a ¼ teaspoon of turmeric with 1/8 teaspoon of coconut oil and apply the mixture to your toothbrush. Brush your teeth and allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes before rinsing and brushing with your normal toothpaste. Be careful not to get the mixture on clothing or white counter tops; it can stain.

You can get whiter teeth by using natural products. However, a professional whitening treatment still produces the whitest smile. To receive a whitening application, schedule an appointment with a local dentist, such as Chen Sharon DMD PC, today.