How to Whiten Enamel

Enamel is the hard mineral that covers the surface of your teeth. The natural color of enamel is a grayish to yellow color. Discoloration of the enamel is caused by staining by foods and other processes such as smoking. There are a variety of techniques, from professional to at-home options, for whitening your tooth enamel.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit a dentist. The whitening method used in dental clinics is the most effective available. It involves use of a potent bleaching solution sometimes with addition of an activating laser. This method may cost you up to $800 per session. Your dentist may also be able to provide you with a take-home dental whitening system. These systems generally cost between $100 to $400.

• 2

  Buy a home teeth-whitening kit from your local grocery or drug store. At-home whitening kits are widely used as a quick and inexpensive way to brighten the smile. These kits cost between $20 and $100.

• 3

  Use a whitening toothpaste. This method will take the longest to achieve desired results but is the most inexpensive and accessible. Almost every major toothpaste-producing company offers a whitening paste. But diligent and long-term use is necessary to see results.

• 4

  Try a home-whitening remedy. Some of the most common natural remedies for achieving whiter teeth are using baking soda and peroxide as a toothpaste; rubbing the teeth with strawberries or the inside of an orange peel; and rubbing a lemon and salt mixture on the teeth. Be careful when using a home remedy as some have the potential to damage the enamel.

• 5

  Prevent staining of the teeth. You can keep your teeth white by avoiding coffee, tea, dark sodas, red wine and smoking. If you do use any of these products, brush your teeth immediately afterward to minimize staining.