DIY Teeth Whitening Facts

We all love to have pearly white teeth. Unfortunately, drinking coffee, wine, cola, and eating certain foods like tomato-based sauces, berries, and curry on a frequent basis can stain our teeth. When you have discolored teeth, do-it-yourself whitening products and techniques may seem an option. At-home tooth whitening should only be done under the guidance of a dentist. It's essential to understand the facts about different ways you can whiten the teeth at home and what to avoid. Here we provide DIY teeth whitening facts you may not be aware of. 

Baking Soda Can Help With Lighter Stains

Brushing with some bit of baking soda can remove lighter and less prominent stains from the teeth. Just put a pinch of baking soda on the toothbrush, wet it, and brush gently. Baking soda receives a rating of 7 on the Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA), which is the abrasiveness scale that dentists use, and it goes from 0 all through to 269. Baking soda is surprisingly gentle on teeth and makes a good option for the lesser stains while helping freshen your breath. 

Whitening Toothpaste Lighten About Two Shades Of Stains 

Toothpaste containing carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide can help whiten the teeth at home. Nonetheless, they tend to lighten up to a few shades – precisely two shades. If you need teeth lighter than two shades, consider seeing a dentist for professional teeth whitening. Besides, whitening toothpaste usually doesn't contain bleach; therefore, it is considered safe for the mouth.  

Certain Natural Remedies Can Damage The Teeth

You might be wrong if you think it is safe to use certain natural substances on the teeth when performing DIY teeth whitening. Just because something is natural doesn't make it is safe for the mouth. For example, activated charcoal is touted as good for whitening teeth, but it is quite abrasive and able to damage the enamel or even cause erosion of the tooth. Sea salt mixed with cider vinegar contains acid, which can weaken the enamel. Additionally, sea salt tends to be harsh and corrosive on teeth. 

For best results, consider seeking a professional like our dentist to whiten your teeth. Not all at-home whitening kits are safe, and even the safe ones may not be effective in getting your teeth whitened properly.