How To Whiten Teeth At Home, According To Dentists

 

Dentists recommend safe at-home teeth whitening using over-the-counter strips, whitening toothpaste, or custom trays with peroxide gels, emphasizing consistency and following instructions to avoid gum irritation or enamel damage; natural methods like baking soda pastes (mildly abrasive) and oil pulling are options, but always consult your dentist before starting any regimen, especially

concerning peroxide use or if you have sensitive teeth. 

Dentist-Recommended Products

• Whitening Strips: Easy to use and effective due to timed contact with bleaching agents (hydrogen/carbamide peroxide).
• Whitening Toothpastes: Mildly abrasive (baking soda) or contain low-concentration bleaching agents to remove surface stains.

Custom Trays: A dentist provides trays molded to your teeth with prescription-strength gel for powerful, longer-term results at home.

Natural & Lifestyle Approaches (Use with Caution)

• Baking Soda: Gently scrub surface stains with a paste of baking soda and water; it's mildly abrasive but shouldn't be used too often.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Use diluted (around 5%) as a mouthwash for mild stains, but be aware it can kill good bacteria and harm enamel if overused.
• Crunchy Fruits & Veggies: Apples, carrots, and celery can naturally help scrub teeth and increase saliva, but avoid rubbing fruit directly due to its acid.
• Oil Pulling: Swishing coconut oil for 15-20 minutes can naturally remove stains without harsh chemicals, but results are gradual. 

Key Dentist Advice

• Consistency is Key: For strips and gels, regular use following directions yields the best results.
• Limit Peroxide: Overuse of peroxide products can lead to sensitivity and gum irritation.
• Consult Your Dentist: Always talk to your dentist first, especially for severe staining or sensitive teeth, to ensure a method is safe and effective for you.