Professional treatments are your easiest, safest and most efficient means of whitening your teeth. Many may still have lingering curiosities about home treatments, however, and we’re here to give you our professional input to make sure you go about it safely.
Beautiful teeth are white teeth. Celebrities spend a fortune to keep their smiles pearly white. But don’t fret, it’s not always necessary to empty your wallet to get your smile back. There are even some natural remedies you can prepare and try at home—all you need is few minutes to get them ready and few minutes to apply them.
Before starting any whitening, whether out of a box or with these home remedies, it’s important to first get a full dental check-up. Not only will whitening agents not work if your teeth have new tartar on them since your last cleaning, but you’ll also need your dentist to check for decay. Whitening treatments can be dangerous and painful if your teeth have new cavities that need repair.
Secret sauce number one: strawberries
Strawberries are acidic and have a naturally abrasive quality, which is the perfect combination for stain removal and teeth whitening.
How’s it done? Grind two strawberries and mix them with one small spoonful of sodium bicarbonate. Apply the mixture to your teeth using your toothbrush, and leave it on for five minutes before you start vigorously brushing your teeth with the mixture. When you’re done, rinse your mouth with warm water. If you are reluctant to use sodium bicarbonate, simply cut strawberries and rub them on your teeth. Do this once or twice per week.
Secret sauce number two: apple vinegar
Since apple vinegar contains even higher levels of acid, it’s recommended not to use it for teeth whitening more than once a week.
How’s it done? Add a spoonful of sodium bicarbonate to an equal amount of apple vinegar and stir until a thick mass is created. You will see visible results in the whiteness of your teeth after the very first time you brush teeth with it. You can even dip your toothbrush into apple vinegar for the same effect.
Secret sauce number three: lemon
Yet another effective blend with sodium bicarbonate is lemon.
How’s it done? Squeeze one lemon and mix it with a big spoonful of sodium bicarbonate until a foamy substance is created. Gently apply it to your teeth, rubbing it in with your finger. Finish by rinsing with warm water.
Secret sauce number four: olive oil
Swishing olive oil in your mouth is another route to whiter teeth. The best thing about this method is that it’s completely safe to use everyday.
Attention: Don’t forget to lightly brush your teeth with toothpaste after applying any of these methods!
There are loads of other ways you can promote naturally-whiter teeth. For example, the next time you load your toothbrush with toothpaste, sprinkle a little bit of salt on it. You can also eat more cauliflower and carrots. These vegetables mechanically clean your teeth as you chew, and they also stimulate the saliva production that neutralizes acid and protects your teeth.
In order to maintain your smile long-term, avoid stain-causing foods and drink like wine and coffee. If you’re using one of these secret-sauce methods once or twice per week, that on top of regular cleanings can be what makes the difference in keeping your smile “Hollywood white.”