A woman whitens her teeth in this undated handout photo
IN PHOTO A woman whitens her teeth in this undated handout photo Reuters/Newscom/Handout

Although there are plenty of new technologies and commercial products available to help whiten your teeth, home remedies are still preferred by many for reasons of convenience and safety. A number of household products can effectively make and keep your teeth white and application will take only a few minutes.

Before you decide to seek professional help (which can be expensive), try these remedies straight out of your home.

1. Baking soda

Mix baking soda with water to make a paste. Make a small enough amount to apply to all your teeth like an ordinary toothpaste, then apply to your gums using a standard toothbrush. Apply once or twice a day and observe the difference after one week. Be careful about using too much bleach. A study published in the British Dental Journal showed that there are associated risks when using bleaching agents.

2. Hydrogen peroxide

Dip your toothbrush into hydrogen peroxide then brush your teeth with it. In a research conducted by Dr. Gerard Kugel from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, hydrogen peroxide has been used at home and commercially by individuals with very good results.

3. Banana and lemon peelings

Rub banana and lemon peels on your tooth for about five to 10 minutes three to five times a week. The high acid level in the lemon peel functions as an effective whitening agent while the potassium, magnesium and manganese in the banana peel can penetrate the teeth and bleach these accordingly.

4. Carrots

Snack on carrot sticks daily. Biting on these will help remove plaque from teeth. Carrots work as a natural teeth cleaner. A study conducted by Dr. Jeffrey Gross of Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine said that rubbing raw carrot sticks resulted in brighter and cleaner teeth. Carrots also contain agents that maintain the acid-alkaline balance in your mouth and eliminate bacteria. You can then enjoy healthy gums and prevent tooth decay.

5. Olive oil

Use a Q-tip or cotton ball, then dip into the olive oil before applying on your teeth. Many users report that it is very useful in removing surface stains. Use this approach three times a week.

People may use two or more of the approaches above simultaneously. Continue brushing your teeth at least twice a day to get the best results.