How Can I Whiten My Teeth Without Using Strips?

Don't be afraid to open your mouth and reveal your teeth. Yes, yellow teeth can be unsightly, but they are not always the result of poor hygiene. You might not realize it, but the coffee you indulge in every day can stain your teeth. In fact, there are many things that discolor teeth, such as certain antibiotics. The good news is that you can whiten your teeth and remove stains without using whitening strips. You have many options in which to choose. Find the one that works best for you.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Toothbrush
• Whitening toothpaste
• Whitening rinse
• Dental trays with peroxide gel

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Instructions

• 1

  Use baking soda when you brush your teeth. Baking soda is a mild abrasive so it can remove surface stains. It's simple to use too. Moisten your toothbrush and dip it into baking soda, then brush your teeth as you normally do. Brush with baking soda no more than once a week as it could damage your tooth enamel.

• 2

  Use a whitening toothpaste every time you brush your teeth. These toothpastes contain chemical agents designed to remove surface stains. Buy a toothpaste that contains the seal of the American Dental Association. Do not use it more than twice a day, however, because excessive use might damage your tooth enamel.

• 3

  Use a whitening rinse before brushing your teeth. This is similar to a mouthwash, in that it also freshens your breath and reduces plaque, but you get the benefit of mild whitening as well. Swish it in your mouth for 60 seconds and do this before you brush. Use this twice a day. The effects are mild, but it might remove some surface stains.

• 4

  Get dental trays from your dentist. These are like retainers, in that they slip over your teeth. They are filled with a gel containing peroxide and you wear them at home for a certain amount of time every day. Speak to your dentist if you are considering this.

• 5

  Invest in a dental bleaching. Dentists offer bleaching right in the office. Basically, a bleaching agent, like peroxide, is applied to the teeth. Sometimes, a heat source or laser is used to enhance the treatment. Your treatment can last up to 60 minutes. You might need several treatments. The cost varies by location and dentist. Find out everything you can from your dentist before you engage in this type of treatment.