Salt can temporarily make teeth appear whiter, but this is due to its abrasive action removing surface stains, not because it actually whitens teeth. This temporary whitening effect comes at a cost.
The Abrasive Action of Salt
Several sources confirm that salt's ability to make teeth look brighter is solely because of its abrasive nature. The rough salt crystals scrub away surface stains, creating a cleaner, seemingly whiter appearance. However, this abrasive action also damages tooth enamel. This source explicitly states there's "no scientific evidence that brushing with salt has any sort of whitening effect on teeth." Another source here points out that any perceived whitening is merely temporary surface stain removal.
The Damage to Enamel
The damage to enamel caused by salt's abrasiveness is permanent. Once enamel is damaged, it cannot be repaired. This reference highlights this crucial point. The long-term consequences outweigh any short-term aesthetic benefit. Another source warns that salt's abrasive nature can lead to increased tooth sensitivity.
Alternative Teeth Whitening Methods
While salt offers a temporary visual improvement, it's not a recommended teeth-whitening method. Numerous safer and more effective methods are available, such as professional whitening treatments and other home remedies that don't damage tooth enamel.
Conclusion
Using salt to whiten teeth provides a temporary illusion of whiteness due to abrasion, but it causes irreversible damage to tooth enamel. Therefore, it is not a recommended or safe teeth-whitening practice.
