Baking soda is one of the most famous home teeth whitening methods. It is often used as an addition to toothpaste or used alone to scrub teeth. Why is it popular?

• Fact: Baking soda actually has abrasive properties, which allows you to remove surface stains on your teeth.
• Fact: Regular use of baking soda can be harmful. Its rough structure can damage the enamel, which leads to tooth hypersensitivity and a greater risk of caries.

Activated carbon

Activated charcoal has gained popularity as a natural tooth whitener. Many people claim that it is effective on discolorations caused by coffee, tea or wine.

• Fact: Activated charcoal has strong adsorption properties, which means it can bind staining substances to the surface of teeth.
• Fact: Like baking soda, activated charcoal is too harsh on teeth. Long-term use may destroy the enamel, which leads to permanent damage.

Coconut oil (oil pulling method)

Rinsing your mouth with coconut oil is an ancient Ayurvedic technique that has gained popularity as a home remedy for teeth whitening.

• Fact: Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can improve oral health. Regular use can reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, contributing to a healthier smile.
• Fact: Rinsing your mouth with oil will not whiten your teeth. It may help remove plaque, but it will not visibly lighten the color of the enamel.

Lemon and other sour fruits

Some people recommend using lemon or other acidic fruits as natural teeth whiteners. Citric acid has a strong effect, which could theoretically help with whitening.

• Fact: Citric acid actually has the ability to remove surface stains from teeth.
• Fact: Applying lemon or other sour fruits to your teeth can be very harmful. The acid damages the enamel, which leads to hypersensitivity and weakening of the teeth. Long-term use may lead to enamel erosion.

Effective teeth whitening methods – what really works?

While many home remedies may be tempting, many of them are not safe or effective. It is worth paying attention to professional and proven whitening methods that do not pose a threat to the health of your teeth.

Whitening pastes

Whitening toothpastes available in pharmacies are a safe solution for people who want to brighten their smile. They contain mild abrasives and enzymes that remove surface stains. Regular use of whitening toothpaste can bring visible results without the risk of damaging the enamel.

Whitening trays and whitening gels

Teeth whitening kits available from pharmacies or dentists, such as whitening trays with gel, are a safe and effective solution. They contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which act directly on the enamel, brightening it. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid gum irritation. It is worth noting, however, that many professionals advise against whitening your teeth with products available in pharmacies at home - not all teeth are suitable for such a treatment, and if you do it on your own, you may seriously harm yourself.

Professional whitening at the dentist

The most effective method of teeth whitening is a procedure performed by a dentist. The doctor uses specialized preparations with a high concentration of active substances, which gives an immediate effect. This treatment is controlled, which minimizes the risk of irritation or damage.

Myths about teeth whitening at home

On forums, on social media and among popular beliefs, you can find many claims about teeth whitening that are not only wrong, but also harmful. It is worth knowing them before we decide to whiten our teeth at home.

"Home whitening is as effective as professional whitening"

This is a common myth that can be harmful to your dental health. Most home methods are based on the use of abrasives or acids, which may provide a temporary effect but cannot whiten teeth safely and permanently. Professional whitening performed by a dentist is much more effective and safe.

"Baking soda whitens teeth safely"

Baking soda does remove surface stains, but its abrasive effect can damage enamel with regular use. As a result, teeth become more susceptible to decay and hypersensitivity. Dentists recommend caution when using such methods.

"Natural ingredients are safer than chemical ones"

Although many people believe that natural products are safer, this is not always true. The acids contained in lemon or soda can damage the enamel, and activated charcoal, although natural, may be too rough for the delicate structure of the teeth.