Whiter Brighter Teeth in a SNAP!

We all understand the importance of brushing and flossing our teeth, however, teeth WHITENING may not be a priority for some. We all love our morning coffee or tea, but foods like these will stain teeth. SO, if a YELLOW smile is something you'd like to avoid, then read on!

 

There are many over the counter teeth-whitening products on the market, as well as medical-grade gels (obtained from your dentist).  But here are some quick and inexpensive methods you can produce in the comfort of your own bathroom....or kitchen :)

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE (HP) is a fantastic germicidal, killing micro-organisms via oxidation. A 3 % concentration (found for under a dollar at all drug stores) is absolutely safe to use orally...just DO NOT swallow this product, as it may be harmful if ingested..... always spit it out!  Pour a capful of the HP in your mouth, prior to brushing your teeth; swish-around for one minute, then brush as usual. This method is safe, quick and easy, and can be used twice per day.

QUICK TIP:  Pour some HP onto your regular toothbrush, everyday, to disinfect the bristles. A beautiful smile will be negated by a bacteria and germ-clad mouth (which can lead to bad breath). Care for your toothbrush as you would your skin. The sonic-type machines work wonders, cleaning those pearly whites with steroid- infused power.

BAKING SODA & HYDROGEN PEROXIDE:  Mix half a teaspoon of HP with a teaspoon of baking soda. Mix the two, adding more or less product as needed to achieve a pasty consistency.  Apply the mixture to a toothbrush and brush well for one minute, then allow the mixture to sit on the teeth for an additional minute.  Rinse well.

BAKING SODA & LEMON JUICE:  Create a paste using a teaspoon of both baking soda and lemon or lime juice. The citric acid in the fruit causes a chemical reaction when combined with the baking soda, which works as an effective bleaching agent. Use fresh lemon or lime juice, rather than the store-bought bottled versions. Even though baking soda is abrasive, it is gentle for use on the teeth. Load your toothbrush with the paste,and brush your teeth for one minute, then rinse well.  IMPORTANT NOTE:  The acid in the citrus is corrosive and will damage tooth enamel, so limit your use to once per week. I suggest that you consult with your dentist to get his/her perspective (although I'm sure, they'll try and sell you their fancy and expensive whitening gels!).OVER THE COUNTER PRODUCT:  There are a myriad of whitening toothpastes on the market, but I have found that Arm and Hammer Whitening Booster works the best! What I love most about this product is that you ADD it to your own toothpaste, so if you have a favorite non-whitening paste, this is a great option. 

QUICK NOTE: I would suggest using a separate toothbrush when applying these treatments, especially the lemon juice. Residual acid can inadvertently sneak it's way onto the enamel  :)

LIPSTICK COLOR:  Ladies, be conscious of  the lipstick color you're using, as it can absolutely influence the color of your teeth. I'm obsessed with nudes, but I always make sure that I pick one with a pink undertone, as a pure nude can make teeth appear yellow. The same theory is true for oranges, so if you prefer a brighter lip, pick a berry version instead. If you like a bold red lip (reds can make teeth appear up to TWO shades whiter), pick one with blue undertones.  The blue will negate the look of stained-teeth and your smile will be uber-sexy!     

 

Happy GLEAMING smiles to you all!

 

--Ciao for now  :)