Whiten teeth
A woman whitens her teeth in this undated handout photo. It’s interesting how much people spend on all kinds of products to help them with their health, beauty, and wellness. What they don’t know is that there are amazing uses of baking soda that can help them with not just one but several things that will make life easier and less expensive for them. Reuters/Newscom/Handout

Going to the dentist to have your teeth whitened through a sophisticated process can cost thousands of dollars. You can, however, save a lot by simply using home items and natural methods. Here are tried and proven ways to whiten your teeth naturally.

1. Baking soda and lemon juice

Baking sodium, also known as sodium bicarbonate effectively scrubs off surface stains so that teeth look whiter. It is a bit abrasive and very alkalinic, which will balance the Ph in your mouth, based on an article by Everyday Roots. Create a paste by mixing baking soda and lemon juice. The two ingredients will act as natural bleach.

2. Coconut oil

Lauric acid is present in coconut oil which effectively gets rid of bacteria and plaque on your teeth which causes these to turn yellow. Coconut oil is also beneficial for gum health and will eliminate bacteria in the mouth that causes bad breath. Take a tablespoonful of coconut oil then swish it in your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with water afterwards.

3. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

Instead of lemon juice, use hydrogen peroxide then mix with baking soda to make a paste. Hydrogen peroxide will eliminate bacteria in your mouth and teeth and also keeps your gums clean and healthy. The paste should not be gritty to avoid scrubbing off the protective enamel on your teeth.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Dr. Axe recommends brushing your teeth with apple cider vinegar to cleanse your oral cavity. It can get rid of stains from nicotine and coffee. Rinse your mouth then brush with regular toothpaste afterwards. Consistently use apple cider vinegar for three to four weeks for the best results.

5. Strawberry mix

Strawberries contain a lot of vitamin C which will break down plaque and get rid of bacteria that cause your teeth to turn yellow. Strawberries also have malic acid which removes surface stains. Create a paste by mixing strawberries, salt and baking soda together. Brush your teeth with the mixture then rinse with water.

You will notice big differences in a span of one month by consistently using the home whitening solutions above. Indeed, some of the best fixes are just within reach in your kitchen. Do you know of other teeth whitening alternatives? Let us know in the comments!