How to Whiten Your Teeth for a Killer Smile

Everyday wear and tear can do a number on your smile. What was once pearly and white can now be dimmed and yellowed as a result of what you eat or drink, among other reasons. Many people consult expensive whitening treatments as their first option, but there are ways to whiten your teeth at home. In most instances all you need are some common household ingredients and a few minutes each day in order to get the brighter smile you long for.

#1 Baking Soda

Most people know that baking soda has a reputation for whitening products, but few people consider baking soda as a teeth whitener let alone know how to whiten teeth with baking soda. However, it can be a very powerful agent for removing surface stains when used as a tooth polish ultimately resulting in a whiter smile.

Make a polish by blending ½ tsp of baking soda and ½ tsp table salt. Any residue on the teeth will be removed by the mild abrasives and the chemical reaction of the baking soda with the water will lighten surface stains. Note that this should only be used once a week to prevent enamel damage.

#2 Hydrogen Peroxide

Many people know that hydrogen peroxide can lighten your hair, and it can have the same effect on your teeth. When mixed with water and used as a mouthwash, you can see dramatic whitening results.

Make a solution that is half hydrogen peroxide (2 tbs) and half water (2 tbs). Swish the solution in your mouth for approximately one minute. You will notice a foaming and/or bubbling sensation which means the reaction is working to remove surface stains. Spit out and rinse with water afterwards to neutralize the reaction.

#3 Banana Peel

Don’t be so quick to discard that banana peel after enjoying a tasty snack. If you are looking for a more gradual whitening effect, the peel can offer whitening benefits with a more gentle touch.

Banana peels contain minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and manganese that absorb into and whiten them over time.

#4 All Natural Whitening Toothpaste

There are toothpastes that use all natural ingredients and still offer whitening benefits. One well known and highly recommended brand is TOMs which removes stains using sodium fluoride; created from an ore (fluorspar) and silica which is purified from the earth. The toothpaste contains no chemical thickeners and is perfectly safe and healthy for use.

#5 Add Beneficial Agents to Diet

Certain foods contain natural agents that can boost your physical health and whiten your smile.

Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale contain mineral compounds in them that create a film on your teeth. That films acts as a barrier to prevent staining on your teeth.

Fruits such as strawberries and apples can operate as natural bleaching and polishing agents when incorporated in your diet. Strawberries contain an astringent and Vitamin C. The astringent removes surface stains while the Vitamin C works to clear plaque. Apples contain malic acid which works to dissolve surface stains, while the actual process of chewing the apple brushes away any buildup.

#6 Remove Harmful Agents

It probably goes without saying that one of the best ways to whiten your teeth naturally is to stop any behaviors or activities that would counteract this process.

This means minimizing or cutting out teeth staining beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, or soda which all have tannins. Or if you have to have these items, drinking them using a straw will keep the liquids off of your teeth, thus preventing staining.

This also means quitting smoking which leads to tooth discoloration that cannot be undone with natural remedies.

#7 Establish Good Oral Hygiene

Of course the easiest way to whiten and maintain whiter teeth is to practice good oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily, using a mouthwash, and flossing will help to prevent plaque build-up and will work to remove surface stains that leave the teeth yellow. These practices can go a long way in getting you the pearly whites you desire.

Why not take the power into your own hands and give yourself the whiter smile you crave without the hassle or cost of more expensive dental office whitening procedures. Just one of these options can make a significant difference, so give them a try. You’ll be amazed at the results!