How to Whiten Teeth With Food-Grade Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful bleaching agent and the active ingredient in most of the over-the-counter (OTC) tooth whiteners. Products with higher amounts of peroxide produces faster whitening of the teeth, but it increases the risk of painful tooth sensitivity. Lower amounts of peroxide do not whiten as quickly but produce minimal side effects. However, a study conducted by Ohio State University showed that home tooth whiteners and bleaching can cause the teeth to lose a slight amount of enamel hardness. Food-grade hydrogen peroxide is the only peroxide considered safe for internal use.

Instructions

• 1

  Try one of the many OTC tooth whitening products that contains food-grade hydrogen peroxide. You can experiment with whitening strips, paint on whitening gels and use the whitening mouth washes. They contain low amounts of hydrogen peroxide, are easy to use and considered safe if you follow the directions correctly.

• 2

  Brush your teeth with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Create a paste of the two ingredients by adding 3 tsp. hydrogen peroxide to the baking soda until it has a similar consistency to toothpaste. Add a drop of your regular toothpaste for flavor. Apply the mixture to your toothbrush, brush as usual and then rinse.

• 3

  Make a hydrogen peroxide-based mouthwash. Fill a cup with 4 tbsp. hydrogen peroxide and swish it around your mouth for 20 seconds. The antiseptic qualities of the hydrogen peroxide helps to whiten and clean your teeth and also promotes overall oral health.

• 4

  Dip a cotton ball or swab into the hydrogen peroxide and gently rub it over each tooth. Allow the hydrogen peroxide to remain on your teeth for five to 10 minutes; rinse thoroughly.