5 DIY teeth whitening hacks

Having a bright, white smile can boost your confidence and improve your overall appearance. While professional teeth whitening treatments can be effective, they can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are several do-it-yourself (DIY) teeth whitening hacks that you can try at home using common household ingredients. Here are five DIY teeth whitening hacks that you can incorporate into your oral care routine:

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

• Baking soda has natural whitening properties, while hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in many whitening toothpastes. To make a DIY whitening paste, mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide to form a thick paste.
• Apply the paste to your teeth using a toothbrush or your finger, and let it sit for about 1–2 minutes.
• Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water afterward. Repeat this process 2–3 times a week for best results, but be careful not to overdo it, as excessive use may damage your tooth enamel.

Coconut Oil Pulling

• Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria and promote oral health. Coconut oil is often used for its antibacterial properties and potential teeth-whitening effects.
• Take a tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15–20 minutes.
• Spit out the oil into a trash can (not the sink, as coconut oil can solidify and clog drains), then rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth as usual.
• Incorporate coconut oil into your daily oral care routine to gradually whiten your teeth and improve oral health.

Strawberries and Baking Soda Scrub:

• Strawberries contain malic acid, which is a natural teeth-whitening agent. When combined with baking soda, strawberries can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile.
• Mash up one ripe strawberry and mix it with a teaspoon of baking soda to create a scrub.
• Use a soft toothbrush to apply the mixture to your teeth, gently scrubbing for 2–3 minutes.
• Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water afterward to remove any residue. Repeat this process once or twice a week for optimal results.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse:

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known for its acidic properties, which can help remove stains and kill bacteria in the mouth. However, it’s essential to use ACV sparingly and properly dilute it to prevent damage to tooth enamel.
• Mix one part ACV with two parts water to create a diluted rinse.
• Swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then spit it out.
• Rinse your mouth with water afterward to remove any remaining acid. Limit the use of ACV rinse to once a week to avoid enamel erosion.

Activated Charcoal Paste:

• Activated charcoal is a highly absorbent substance that can effectively remove surface stains from teeth.
• Mix activated charcoal powder with a small amount of water to form a paste.
• Apply the paste to your teeth using a toothbrush or your finger, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
• Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water afterward to remove the charcoal residue. Use activated charcoal paste 2–3 times a week for best results, but avoid using it if you have sensitive teeth or gums.

While DIY teeth whitening methods can enhance your smile, it’s important to note that outcomes may differ and may not be as effective as professional procedures. It is vital to uphold good oral hygiene practices like regular brushing and flossing to sustain a bright and healthy smile. If you have worries about your teeth’s appearance or are facing oral health problems, seeking advice and treatment from a dentist is advised. Dr. Manju Kejriwal, DDS, FICOI, a cosmetic dentist in Cincinnati, OH, is available to deliver expert advice and propose customized teeth whitening options to suit your requirements.