5 of the most effective home remedies for teeth whitening

Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Marek)
Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Marek)

Achieving a brighter smile from the comfort of your home is quite common, thanks to a range of accessible over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Among these, you can find whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels, each incorporating active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

These substances work to dissolve surface stains and generally enhance the whiteness of your teeth. In the realm of natural alternatives, some individuals experiment with home concoctions, such as a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, or engage in oil pulling using coconut oil.


Home remedies for teeth whitening

Here are 5 home remedies for teeth whitening you should try.

1. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Rafael)
Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Rafael)

Combining baking soda with hydrogen peroxide forms a potent blend for teeth whitening. To create the paste, a small quantity of baking soda should be mixed with just enough hydrogen peroxide or water to attain a paste-like consistency. Use this paste to brush your teeth gently for two minutes, giving extra attention to stained or discolored spots.

The mild abrasiveness of baking soda aids in scrubbing off surface stains, and hydrogen peroxide's bleaching properties contribute to the whitening effect. It's important to exercise caution and not overuse this homemade paste, as it could harm your tooth enamel with frequent use. Limit its application to perhaps once a week, and ensure you rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward.


2. Coconut Oil Pulling

Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Elsa)
Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Elsa)

The practice of coconut oil pulling, rooted in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, is believed to enhance oral health and naturally whiten teeth. Begin by swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes daily. Take care not to ingest the oil since it can gather toxins from the mouth.

When finished, dispose of the oil in a trash receptacle to avoid sink blockages from solidified oil. The theory is that coconut oil can lift surface stains and support oral cleanliness by diminishing mouth bacteria. With regular application, you might notice your smile becoming gradually brighter.


3. Strawberries and Baking Soda

Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Enis)
Teeth whitening (Image via Unsplash/Enis)

A natural teeth-whitening agent can be made by blending strawberries with baking soda. Crush a few strawberries and combine them with a sprinkle of baking soda to form a paste. Coat your teeth with this mixture and let it sit for five minutes. The acidic nature of strawberries and the abrasive texture of baking soda work together to dissolve tooth stains.

Once the time is up, rinse your mouth and brush your teeth to clear any remaining mixture. While this method may lead to some whitening, it doesn't compare to the effectiveness of professional dental treatments and should be used only occasionally.


4. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Teeth -whitening (Image via Unsplash/Diana)
Teeth -whitening (Image via Unsplash/Diana)

Apple cider vinegar, recognized for its acidic properties, can act as a natural teeth-whitening agent. For a rinse, dilute apple cider vinegar with water, using a 1:2 ratio. Swish the solution in your mouth for a few seconds and follow up with a water rinse to mitigate the vinegar's acidity.

Since the acid can erode tooth enamel over time, it's crucial to use this rinse infrequently. Incorporate it into your dental routine sporadically, and seek your dentist's advice for recommended usage.


5. Banana Peel Rub

Teeth- whitening (Image via Unsplash/Lesly)
Teeth- whitening (Image via Unsplash/Lesly)

The inner part of a banana peel is rich in minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are suggested to assist in teeth whitening. The application is simple: rub the inside of a ripe banana peel on your teeth for a couple of minutes. Afterward, be sure to rinse your mouth to remove any banana remnants.

The minerals present in banana peels may offer teeth-whitening advantages, though the effect might be modest and typically requires persistent application. It's important to note that this technique is not a stand-in for professional treatments, and consulting with a dentist for individualized recommendations is advisable, along with adhering to good oral hygiene for overall dental health.


It's important to note that while these remedies may provide some teeth whitening benefits, they may not be as effective as professional dental treatments. Consult with a dentist before trying home remedies.

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