A number of teeth whitening products are available and they are effective; however, if you want to whiten your teeth naturally, you may be looking for alternatives.

Can you whiten your teeth using natural methods? Yes–and it’s not difficult, once you know how and what products to use.

The first place to look is the home cupboard or food pantry. You may already have products on hand that can effectively whiten teeth. First, though, caution is in order.

Do Not Use These Items to Try to Whiten Teeth!

• Lemons are commonly used for teeth whitening but lemons aren’t recommended for the job. Why not? Lemons contain acid, which robs tooth enamel of calcium, causing problems down the road.

• Mashed strawberries are also used to whiten teeth, but strawberries also contain acid, which can impact on tooth health. Strawberry seeds may also scratch.

• In order to achieve a brighter smile, some people have resorted to using wood ash (lye). It should be obvious why this is not a good idea. The potassium hydroxide might whiten teeth but would also impact on enamel over time.

• Never, never use bleach on teeth. While bleach whitens almost any surface, bleach is corrosive and potentially carcinogenic.

How to Whiten Teeth Naturally

If you don’t want to use commercial teeth whiteners, you can lighten your teeth naturally, using three common household products.

• First up is baking soda. Baking soda is safe and will whiten teeth naturally. Baking soda neutralizes harmful acids that affect tooth enamel and it kills bacteria, which contribute to plaque. Apply a small amount to your toothbrush and brush teeth gently. Rinse well. Baking soda is a natural substance you can safely use on your teeth.

• For tough stains, peroxide can be added to baking soda. A paste can be made by combining these two, then teeth brushed. These products work in concert to reduce stains and whiten teeth.

• A triple combo involves salt, baking soda, and peroxide. Simply dip your toothbrush in peroxide first,  then dip it into a container that contains equal amounts of baking soda and salt.

These teeth whiteners may not taste ideal but they are readily available–and more importantly, they are safe. You can whiten your teeth naturally using three common household products, secure in the knowledge that you aren’t exposing your teeth and gums to questionable chemicals in whitening agents. Using baking soda, peroxide, and salt can help you to brighten your smile naturally, while saving money.