Having whiter teeth not only makes you look better but also feel better about yourself. Although getting them whitened at a dentist is always the safest and best option nowadays there are many DIY teeth whitening tips and tricks you can try at home. Below are just a few simple DIY teeth whitening ideas that may give you a brighter and whiter smile.
Brush With Baking Soda
Baking soda has many whitening benefits. Not only does it help to remove hard stains because of its gritty texture but it can also help to brighten and whiten teeth naturally. To use baking soda at home simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with about a half of teaspoon of water until you get a toothpaste consistency. Then brush your teeth with the paste as you normally would even allowing the mixture to sit on your teeth for a moment or two before completely rinsing it off. If the taste of the baking soda is not desirable simply add a small drop of mint to the mixture.
Rinse With Peroxide
Another great way to whiten teeth at home is to rinse teeth with peroxide. Peroxide is known as a natural bleaching agent which can help to remove surface stains from teeth. When using peroxide it is important to only use a small safe amount and do not use if it burns or stings the mouth. To whiten teeth at home with peroxide simply mix equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide in a cup and gargle before spitting out. Many teeth whitening mouthwashes are simply peroxide filled with other ingredients such as water and mint.
Brush Correctly
Brushing your teeth correctly makes all the difference from having white healthy teeth to having dull unhealthy teeth. Not only does brushing keep cavities away but it also helps to remove stains that occur from eating making teeth appear whiter and brighter. Don’t aggressively brush teeth no matter how stained or dirty they are. Not only does this ruin the enamel but it can also harm the gums. Light circular motions are perfectly fine.
Floss Regularly
Most people do not floss at all let alone on a regular basis. Flossing on a regular basis helps keep the gaps in between your teeth whiter and healthier. When food builds up in between the teeth it can cause decay and yellowing. Be sure to floss at least one or two times a day and especially after eating a meal.
Mix Baking Soda And Peroxide
For very stained or yellow teeth mixing baking soda and peroxide may be a good alternative. For some, it may be a little harsh but for others, it can help remove hard stains while bleaching teeth at the same time. To make a baking soda peroxide toothpaste simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with about a half of teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide. Stir the mixture up until it looks like toothpaste. If necessary add a small drop of mint for some flavor. Brush teeth as you normally would allowing it to sit for a moment to really penetrate the enamel. After gently brushing completely rinse the mouth with water and repeat it whenever you need a quick brighter whiter smile.
Although visiting a dentist is the best way to get brighter and whiter teeth there are some DIY home methods that can help. These are especially great in conjunction with teeth whitening from the dentist. Don’t be afraid of teeth whitening hurting, it is relatively painless. Aside from whitening your teeth at home, there are also some things you can do to help prevent stains in the first place. Avoid drinking colored drinks such as coffee and soda straight from the cup. Instead, opt for a straw especially a reusable straw which can help bypass the front of teeth and keep them cleaner and whiter. It is also important to brush teeth at least two times a day and floss regularly. All of this in conjunction with regular visits to your dentist can help teeth look and feel healthier.