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Seemingly, everyone wishes they had a flawlessly white smile, though very few people come by them honestly. Healthy enamel is naturally translucent and allows some of the darker layer of dentin beneath to shine through, which is what gives it its pearly appearance.
If your teeth look more brown or yellow, you might feel tempted to try at-home solutions to brighten your grin. However, these options might not provide the desired results and could potentially damage your oral health if you’re not careful. Continue reading to learn 3 potentially harmful remedies and why it’s better to contact your dentist!
Method #1: Activated Charcoal
Many people who want whiter teeth wonder whether applying activated charcoal might help. This isn’t the same as the black blocks that you throw on the grill when you’re barbecuing. Instead, this charcoal contains natural ingredients like wood, coconut shells, or peat. When it’s processed, it’s heated to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, which creates pores that make it incredibly absorbent.
As a result, it’s an effective solution to treat swallowed poisons or other toxins, because it binds to them and prevents them from entering your bloodstream. Many also believe it can absorb the pigment from particles clinging to your enamel to reduce stains. While activated charcoal might be effective in treating minor discoloration, it’s also abrasive and can gauge your enamel, increasing your vulnerability to cavities or other injuries.
Method #2: Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another popular at-home remedy many believe can bleach teeth. Lemons contain citric acid, which can act as a whitening agent. Although the ingredient is sometimes included in different cleaning products because of its bleaching and disinfectant properties, it’s not ideal for whitening enamel.
That’s because of its high acidity levels. Citric acid typically has a pH value between 0 (pure acid) and 3. Unfortunately, anything with a level of about 5.5 or lower is considered harmful to your teeth. While your saliva has a nearly natural pH to counteract acid damage, applying something so strong directly to your enamel can weaken the structure of your teeth.
Method #3: Store-Bought Products
Many people feel tempted to try over-the-counter bleaching kits or strips that claim to lighten smiles but end up disappointed in the results. The truth is that many commercial-grade options contain diluted bleaching agents that aren’t overly effective. Plus, they include one-size-fits-all applicator trays that leave plenty of room for error. You might overapply product to your teeth or gums trying to see the desired changes, only to develop sensitivity.
Meanwhile, your dentist offers professional-grade take-home kits with ultra-concentrated gels designed to mitigate potential sensitivity. They also provide custom-fitted trays so you can achieve a beautifully brighter smile within a couple of weeks from the comfort of your living room.
Meet the Author
Dr. S. John Salivonchik has more than 20 years of experience helping families improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Temple Dental School, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He has since completed continuing educational courses, including the Branemark Implant Restorative Curriculum and the World Clinical Laser Institute for Soft Tissue Surgical and Periodontal Applications. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services, including take-home whitening kits, to meet all your needs at one convenient location. You can request an appointment on the website or call (610) 502-1545.
