Bright Smiles: 3 Alternative Teeth Whitening Methods

Are you looking for ways to brighten your teeth without using a commercial product? There are a variety of ways you can whiten your teeth with ingredients that you can find in your pantry and refrigerator. While they are not as effective as a professional bleach, they can do a great job in between treatments.

Baking Soda and Peroxide

Baking soda is a great way to remove stains from teeth, and peroxide works as a great rinse to remove it after treating the teeth. It also works as an anti-bacterial rinse. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can remove yellow stains from teeth. To use this homemade treatment, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a tablespoon of peroxide. Mix it thoroughly and apply it with your toothbrush. Keep in mind that this is not a very tasty method to whiten teeth. To help reduce some of the saltiness from the mix, you an also add a dot of toothpaste to help add some minty freshness. You can use this mixture once or twice a week. Avoid using it any more than that, as it is an abrasive that can be damaging if used too often.

Citrus Peels

Citrus, particularly lemon, is a really great natural bleaching product. Keep in mind that you only need to use the peels for teeth whitening; the juice is very acidic and can wear down the enamel. To whiten teeth, take a citrus peel and rub it on the teeth for a few moments so that you have covered all the teeth. Next, take some water in the mouth and swish it for a few minutes. Do this treatment no more than once a week.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar is truly a wonder product. It has so many beneficial uses, including teeth whitening. Keep in mind that it is vinegar, so you only should use it no more often than once a week or your can risk breaking down the teeth and making them prone to breakage. To use, dip your toothbrush in some apple cider vinegar and brush it on your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water and then brush your teeth with your regular toothpaste.

To avoid doing any of these treatments too often, take steps to prevent staining your teeth. Avoid staining drinks like coffee or grape juice. If you notice that any of these methods make your mouth hurt or your teeth become sensitive, stop using them and visit your dentist to ensure there is no underlying problem. For more information, talk to a professional like Arrowhead Family Dentistry S. M. Bhatt DDS Inc.