How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Whiten Teeth

What is apple cider vinegar teeth whitening? This involves the use of vinegar to brighten teeth. Apple cider vinegar is also well known as cider vinegar or ACV. This kind of vinegar is made from cider or apple must. The color of apple cider vinegar ranges from pale to medium amber. Here will look at the following aspects; the nature of apple cider vinegar, does it work? And how to use Braggs to whiten teeth.

Organic apple cider vinegar contains mother of vinegar. It is therefore made up of cellulose and acetic bacteria that normally develop during the fermentation process of alcoholic liquids, because the alcohol present is converted into acetic acid in the presence of oxygen from the air. The acid is thereafter combined with wine and cider or other alcoholic liquids to form vinegar.

ACV very popular in medical and health sector and has a long history of its own. Apple cider vinegar a wide range of uses; used in salad dressings, marinades, vinaigrettes, and in food preservatives among other things.

Does apple cider vinegar whiten teeth?

Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity to its amazing health benefits. The remedy is made from fermented apples. It is therefore very rich in pectin, health enzymes and essential minerals. Apple cider vinegar is also known to be reliable in treatment of many other health ailments.

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful cleansing agent with a very mild action. This natural remedy helps in maintaining the pH balance in the acidity range, thereby brightening your teeth.

Apple cider vinegar is known not only for the removal of stains in order to whiten teeth, but also in killing gum disease causing bacteria.

How apple cider vinegar whitens teeth

It effectively works as a natural antibiotic and teeth cleanser, it is also be able to eliminate stubborn stains on the teeth. ACV is especially helpful for removing stains due to common stains like coffee and nicotine. Studies suggest that for many with dark stains it even works just as well as commercial products as a natural teeth whitener.

It is amazing that some report shows that after using ACV it looks like you just got your teeth professionally cleaned. The secrete behind this is that, it contains compounds including acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics and enzymes, which kill germs and at the same time foster the growth of beneficial  probiotic bacteria.

Since apple cider vinegar is naturally acidic, it helps break down plaque or other substances stuck to the teeth. The pH of apple cider vinegar can remove stains from your teeth, which helps naturally whiten your teeth.

How to use apple cider vinegar for teeth whitening

ACV remedy is an amazing natural home remedy for teeth whitening. However, it is very important for one to know how to use for excellent results and also to avoid the possible side effects that may cause other abnormal conditions.

SEE ALSO: How to brighten teeth using turmeric powder

Apple cider can be used in different ways to brighten teeth and give an excellent smile. Some of the best approaches for using ACV remedy includes, mouth wash and use of Bragg apple cider vinegar. Below is a brief overview of this approaches.

1. Apple cider vinegar mouthwash

This is wonderful home remedy for bad breath, thrush, chronic gum infections and tooth stains. For effective use and excellent results, follow the procedure below carefully;

1. Use half teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
2. Dilute the apple cider vinegar with one cup of water
3. Gargle it in the morning
4. Brush teeth as usual after you gargle
5. Repeat this regularly to get rid of stains on teeth and to whiten them.

However, the important thing to note is that you will immediately need to brush your teeth after each use of the apple cider vinegar mouthwash. This is because, ACV is an acid and will need to be rinsed away after use to prevent further damage.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar + baking soda

Apple cider vinegar is a multipurpose household product. It can therefore be used in conjunction with baking soda to brighten teeth. Apple cider vinegar is very surprising because of it has natural whitening properties. Although results are not instant, using apple cider vinegar over a period of weeks can make a difference.

When preparing apple cider vinegar and baking soda paste, mix two parts of apple cider vinegar to one part baking soda is ideal. Note that, less is very effective when it comes to baking soda. Use the solution a few times a week, or simply use the apple cider vinegar as a mild mouth rinse along with your daily oral care.

3. Braggs apple cider vinegar

Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is made from delicious, healthy, organically grown apples.  It is processed and bottled in according to the guidelines.  Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is very rich in fresh natural goodness. It is therefore the best way to add delicious flavor to salads, veggies, most foods, and even sprinkle over popcorn.

 

Certified Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar is unfiltered, unheated, unpasteurized and 5% acidity. Contains the amazing Mother of Vinegar which occurs naturally as strand-like enzymes of connected protein molecules.

Furthermore, Bragg apple cider vinegar has both internal and external health benefits.  These includes, maintenance of health skin, soothing of sore throat, helps in the removal of body sludge toxins and can also be used for teeth whitening.

Precautions and side effects

We all know that apple cider vinegar is extracted from fermented apples. Apple cider vinegar literally means ‘sour wine of apple’ in Latin as well as in French. This sour juice is full of essential vitamins and minerals like pectin, vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C, folic acid, biotin, pantothenic acid, niacin, sodium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and acetic acid.

• Cause damage to the tissues
• Lowers Potassium Levels in the body
• Causes drug reactions
• Gastrointestinal Problems
• Damaged Tooth Enamel
• Decreases the density of bones
• Sore Throat
• Low Blood Sugar Levels
• Acne and Itchy Skin
• Headaches and Nausea

1. Damage to the tissues

The over use of apple cider vinegar causes damage to the body tissues. Whether it is consumed in tablet or liquid form. When used in excess, ACV can cause damage or at times corrode the esophagus, tooth enamel, and stomach lining. All this damages occur because, apple cider vinegar contains high level of citric acidic in it.

Moreover, direct application of apple cider vinegar on the skin can cause irritation, rashes, and a burning sensation. However, there is a way in which we can prevent all these vinegar side effects. This can be achieved by blending it with water, hone, juice, or pinch of baking soda especially when one is having a sensitive skin.

2. Lowered potassium levels in the body

According to a Natural Standard review; the high acetic acid content of ACV causes low potassium levels in your blood.

The condition is normally called hypokalemia. This condition may cause the development of many other related symptoms and ailments which includes, general body weakness, nausea, cramps, frequent urination, low blood pressure, changes in heart rhythm, and paralysis.

In order to curb this, it highly recommended that you consult a doctor before using apple cider vinegar orally. Moreover, when it is topically applied, apple cider vinegar does not cause as much threat as compared to when it is ingested.

3. Apple cider vinegar causes drug reactions in the body

When ACV is consumed, it may cause drug reaction in the body. The reason for this due to the fact that ACV is acidic in nature. When in contact, it can easily react with some drugs like laxatives, diuretics, and insulin since it has direct effect on this drugs.

In addition to that, the direct effect of ACV on the insulin levels and blood sugar, may prove to be highly hazardous when taken together with blood pressure and diabetes medications. Therefore, any individual suffering from any health disorder is advised to consult a doctor before using ACV. The helps in eliminating drastic reactions in the body.

4. ACV causes gastrointestinal problems

It causes functional disorders in the body. This is a situation where by, the gastrointestinal tract looks normal but does not work properly. They are the most common problems affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are two common examples of functional disorders.

Moreover, apple cider vinegar can also lead to a serious diarrhea and heartburn. These side effects are very common for individuals who use AC for detoxification. However, consumption of unrefined ACV with a pH level of 5-7 prevents these side effects to a large extent. If the side effects do not disappear over time, it is recommended for one discontinue or lower the dosage.

5. Use of ACV causes damage on tooth enamel

Undiluted ACV is very risky because of its acidity. It causes damage to the enamel when consumed orally. It also causes formation of a yellowish tinge on the teeth and increases dental sensitivity as well.

Nevertheless, in order to avoid direct contact with the teeth, liquid ACV should be consumed by the use of a straw. It should be blended with a juice or water in order to lower the possible side effects of acv consumption. To reduce the potential damage to your tooth enamel, teeth should be brushed immediately after the intake.

6. Decreases the density of bones

The excessive use of apple cider vinegar also reduces the bone mineral density, making bones weak and brittle. Hence, people suffering from osteoporosis should never go ahead to use apple cider vinegar.

In regard to this, necessary precautions ought to be taken and always ensure to consult physician before using ACV. However, topical administration of ACV is not that harmful.

7. Sore Throat

The overuse of apple cider vinegar orally cause the throat to become sore. This may eventually lead to throat irritation. This is caused mainly due to the presence of acetic acid in apple cider vinegar. It is therefore vert mandatory that it be diluted in water, if meant to be used for a prolonged period. This helps prevent the possible damage to the esophageal walls

8. Low Blood Sugar Levels

When apple cider vinegar is used in excess, it cause the blood sugar level to drop. The drop in blood sugar level is caused by the antiglycemic effect of ACV on blood cells. In some cases, it may cause diabetic hypoglycemia, cutting off glucose supply to the brain, and resulting in unconsciousness and even coma.

However, apart from it being risky, this activity of apple cider vinegar comes out to be very beneficial for individuals suffering from type II diabetes and insulin resistance.

9. Acne and itchy Skin

Flushing out of toxins from the body is one of the major role of apple cider vinegar in the body. The process is very beneficial to us yes! But it is accompanied by production of acne and also causes skin irritation and itching. The reason behind it is that, the expulsion of these toxins normally takes place through the skin.

To curb the production of acne, it is advisable to use diluted apple cider vinegar. However, make consultation from a doctor the condition worsens.

10. Painful headaches

The overuse of apple cider vinegar can eventually lead to painful headaches accompanied by a feeling of nausea. This occurs due to its detoxification property that makes our brain release harmful toxins.

One should generally avoid consuming apple cider vinegar first thing in the morning as our body is just out of a deep slumber. Also, dilute this product before consuming it as far as possible.

11. Decreased Mineral Levels

As much as detoxification must take place in the body, this process generally flushes out both good and bad substances from our body. It expels a few essential nutrients like minerals that are very important for our health.

However, the drastic drop in the mineral composition in the body can be reduced by use of multivitamins and supplements. It should be noted that, consumption bananas daily can greatly help curb this condition.

Precautions to when using apple cider vinegar

Always remember to shake the bottle before use as the essential components are present at the bottom of the bottle.

Remember to dilute the solution prior to using it because it is acidic in nature and may harm your teeth when used in undiluted form.

Avoid using excess vinegar, not to be used more than once in a day, on your teeth as it may weaken the enamel.

Sources and references

1. Wikipedia:
2. HealthSite:
3. Mbg:
4. ORAL CARE CENTER: