Bleaching teeth at home

Teeth bleaching is something many people consider doing, especially if they are no longer young, because even with perfect oral hygiene human teeth, unfortunately, lose their brightness and shine with age. Other factors that contribute to teeth stains and discoloration are coffee, tea, colored foods, cigarettes, but also certain medications and even some dental treatments.

Teeth bleaching is an important part of cosmetic dentistry. Many dentists offer this treatment to their patients, although it can be an expensive procedure and the one that requires many appointments on regular basis, in order to maintain the effects.

For those who find frequent trips to the dentist’s inconvenient and expensive, there are other options- home remedies and commercial products.

Home remedies for teeth bleaching

One of the cheapest and most convenient methods for whitening teeth at home uses baking soda mixed with hydrogen peroxide. These two ingredients must be mixed together, in equal amounts, until they form a smooth paste that is used for brushing. The sufficient amount is usually two teaspoons of each. Ideally, the paste should be left on the teeth for no longer than two minutes and then rinsed, without swallowing it. For those who do not like the smell of peroxide, a small amount of normal toothpaste can be added too.

This treatment should not be repeated often, and it is recommended to do it once a month.

Another effective home remedy for teeth bleaching combines crushed strawberry and baking soda. The ratio is half a teaspoon for one strawberry. It is used the same way as baking soda-peroxide combination.

Other home remedy options for whitening the teeth include hardwood ash, apple cider vinegar, coarse salt and many more. All of them should be used with caution and in case there is any discomfort or irritation the treatment should be stopped and the mouth should be thoroughly rinsed.

Commercial products for teeth bleaching

Those who want to be sure about the effects of teeth bleaching at home may want to try out some of the many commercial products out there that aim to make teeth look whiter and brighter. Those products may come in form of whitening trays, strips, gels, toothpaste, or mouthwash.

Whitening trays can be very effective but this also depends on the manufacturer. These trays can be molded and they are supposed to be placed so the teeth rest inside them comfortably. Once they are applied to the teeth in this manner, they release whitening agents that are contained inside. Whitening trays must stay on for a period of time that is determined by the manufacturer.

Both home remedies and commercial products for teeth bleaching should be used with caution and according to the instructions. Teeth damaged by decay or surrounded by infected gums should not be bleached in any way. Bleaching should never be done frequently because it may damage the tooth enamel and make teeth more prone to decay and other dental problems.