Best natural ways to whiten teeth

A bright, healthy smile is one of the most appealing features of a person and basically everyone wants to have whiter teeth. Today there are many options for teeth whitening, ranging from treatments performed by a dentist to whitening products like toothpaste, mouthwash and strips. However, some of those options are not exactly healthy and some can even damage the surface of the tooth. There are several simple at-home methods for teeth whitening that are completely harmless and very effective.

Listerine and peroxide

Using Listerine or peroxide can be very effective for those who wish to have whiter teeth. Both products have the whitening effect and they also act as antibacterial agents, thus promoting dental and oral health. They can be used separately, and for those who do not care for the taste of peroxide they can be mixed in equal quantities and used for rinsing.

Baking soda

Baking soda is another effective teeth-whitening product, although this is not its primary purpose. Some baking soda is mixed with water in a small cup and the toothbrush is tipped in and then used on teeth. People who use baking soda for whitening their teeth should be cautious and only do it once or twice a month, because it is believed it can damage the tooth enamel. Also, baking soda should not be swallowed.

Lemon and salt

Another effective way to whiten the teeth is to make a mixture of three quarters lemon juice and one quarter saline solution, which is basically water with salt. This remedy, though, is not suitable for everyone. People on low-sodium diet or who avoid salt for other medical reasons should be careful not to swallow the mixture, because it contains salt. Also, some people claim that this mixture hurts their mouth.

Brushing

Sometimes, the best ways to achieve something are the simplest ones. Brushing the teeth is the number one way to make them brighter. It is recommended to brush at least three times a day, preferably after meals and before bedtime. Some people hardly brush at all before rinsing, so if they want to have whiter teeth they should make their brushing time longer. For best results, it is recommended to use a whitening toothpaste.

Avoiding foods that stain

Many foods and drinks people consume have significant effect on the color of the teeth. It is well known that coffee, tea and cigarettes stain the teeth and it is best to avoid them. Also, not many people know that chips are also bad for the teeth,they stick to the surface and leads to plaque build-up.