Why You Should Avoid DIY Teeth Whitening

We all want a brilliantly white smile, and teeth whitening has become a very popular cosmetic dental treatment. But it has brought a wide range of DIY teeth whitening hacks and tricks, which can often be bizarre and dangerous.

Aside from ensuring you are brushing your teeth correctly, it is always better to put your faith in a professional rather than a random YouTube or TikTok vlogger. However, many young people feel pressure from social media influencers, with their veneers and unnaturally white teeth, to gain ‘perfect’ teeth.

We have a look at some of the bizarre teeth whitening methods to avoid.

Baking soda and lemon

While choosing natural ingredients over harsh chemicals is always preferable, using these two ingredients can be massively damaging to your teeth. Lemon has a high pH level or around 2 to 3, and will erode the enamel on your teeth, and adding it to baking soda will make an even more harmful concoction that can cause serious damage.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is made from apple juice with added yeast which turns the sugar into alcohol. Bacteria then turns the alcohol into acetic acid, which is used to treat ear infections. But used orally, it can promise tooth decay.

Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is used by cosmetic dentists to whiten teeth, but using it at home can be highly dangerous. Any bleach or chemicals must be used safely and at the correct strength.

Not only can it damage your teeth but it’s toxic if swallowed and can lead to lasting damage to your gums, skin and eyes.

Regular dental check-ups, correct brushing and flossing daily will help keep your oral health up to scratch. Avoiding foods that stain teeth will help keep your smile white and, of course, you can always go to a professional to get them whitened safely and effectively.

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