Can I Whiten My Teeth Safely at Home?

If you are searching for the best at-home teeth whitening methods, you will find DIY tips all over the internet and over-the-counter products in every pharmacy you visit. You might not think twice about trying to whiten your teeth at home. In fact, it might be pretty tempting to use common household products as a quick and easy way to whiten teeth.

But is it really safe to attempt these DIY teeth whitening tips and tricks on your own? Home remedies for teeth whitening seem like a harmless way to get a brighter smile. However, they might not only be ineffective but could cause permanent damage to your teeth.

DIY Teeth Whitening 

Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

While this combination can be effective when it comes to whipping up a DIY household cleaner, it may not be the best idea when it comes to teeth whitening. Baking soda can be abrasive to tooth enamel. There is also very little evidence that baking soda is effective at whitening teeth.

Peroxide, on the other hand, has proven whitening capabilities. However, if the concentration of hydrogen peroxide is too high, it can be damaging to teeth and gums. Pain, irritation, and other problems can occur if the concentration is too strong or if the mixture is left on too long. If the concentration is too low, it will have minimal effect.

Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Whether these ingredients are applied directly to teeth or in a DIY paste, it is not a good idea to attempt to whiten your teeth with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. These ingredients are acidic, and acids can erode enamel.

While you probably don’t have anything to worry about when you consume small amounts of acidic foods throughout the day as a part of a healthy diet (as long as you are brushing and flossing regularly), applying acids directly to your teeth for several minutes at a time and on a regular basis could damage your teeth. In addition, there is no evidence lemon juice or ACV has any whitening effect on teeth.

Whitening Toothpaste

Most types of whitening toothpaste are safe for your teeth. Concentrations of whitening ingredients are relatively low and unlikely to harm your teeth. While whitening toothpaste can be harmless, it is not the most effective and fasted way to whiten your teeth. Daily use may whiten your teeth one or two shades over time. Of course, talking with your dentist about which brand he or she recommends is always a good idea.

Whitening Kits

Commercially available whitening kits have been professionally developed and tested and, as a result, are generally safe to use. It is always important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Do not leave a product on your teeth longer than suggested, or use the kits more often than recommended. Again, it is a good idea to talk to your dentist about which kit they recommend.

Get the Fastest and Most Effective Teeth Whitening Results from In-Office Treatments

Ask your dentist about the best way to whiten your teeth. You should consider investing in an in-office treatment to get the absolute best whitening results. Elite Dental & Denture PC offers both in-office and at-home options:

Philips Zoom!© is a light-activated in-office treatment that can lighten several shades in a single visit.

Custom-designed at-home whitening trays are another great option. Because these treatments will be developed just for you, you can know they will be both safe and effective!

Ready to whiten the right way? Get in touch with our team to learn more about what we recommend for your smile.