There probably isn’t anyone in the world that doesn’t want a brighter smile. Your smile is one of the first things that people notice during a conversation, and if you enjoy dark coffee or red wine, there’s a good chance that your teeth could use a little whitening. These days, it’s not uncommon for people to go the “do-it-yourself” route to teeth whitening. In fact, there are a lot of options for removing discoloration from your teeth at home.
The information below provides an overview of DIY teeth whitening options that are becoming more popular. As you consider these methods, just keep in mind that you should always check with your dentist before engaging in these practices. Why? Because some DIY teeth whitening methods can cause long-term damage without even brightening your smile. A professional teeth whitening procedure should always be your first choice. However, those listed below are worthy of consideration.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
For decades people have turned to baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for use as a DIY teeth whitening treatment. Some people use the two substances together to create a paste, while others use baking soda to create a paste, and hydrogen peroxide mixed with water as a rinse.
It’s not uncommon for people to use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide when they run out of other teeth cleaning products and need a temporary alternative solution. When baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are mixed to create a paste, it’s then applied to a toothbrush and used just like any other toothpaste.
One reason why it’s important to consult with your dentist is because you don’t want to overuse either of these substances since they can be abrasive. In fact, some dentists recommend limiting the use of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to just a few days and waiting several months before using it again. This schedule might impede the results of teeth whitening.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling, especially with coconut oil, is a popular method for whitening teeth. One of the benefits of using coconut oil is that it isn’t an abrasive substance, so it probably won’t destroy your enamel. What exactly is oil pulling? It essentially involves placing about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth and allowing it to mix with your saliva as you swish it around. It’s believed that the fatty acids in the coconut oil contribute to the production of oxygen molecules that support the removal of stains from your teeth.
The stain removal occurs after swishing the oil in your mouth for about 15 to 20 minutes, then spitting it out to brush and rinse your teeth. Some people use this method on a regular basis until they reach their desired teeth color. Others use oil pulling for health reasons because it’s believed to eliminate harmful bacteria. The oil used for oil pulling should never be consumed because it includes bacteria from your mouth.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is sometimes used to remove stains from teeth. It can be used as a rinse or mixed with natural toothpaste and used to brush your teeth. When apple cider vinegar is used as a rinse, it’s important to dilute it so that it doesn’t break down the enamel on your teeth.
Activated Charcoal
Another DIY teeth whitening method is activated charcoal. It’s often made by mixing the charcoal with a small amount of water to create a paste that’s used to brush your teeth. Some people use the charcoal with other ingredients or by itself. For optimal results, the charcoal should be allowed to remain on your teeth for a couple of minutes before rinsing your mouth with water.