Raise your hand if you have ever thought about trying one of the countless DIY videos on social media. There seems to be a DIY hack for almost anything, including teeth whitening. Do these DIY’s really work or is it all just movie magic?

We have broken down two of the most common DIY teeth whitening hacks to see if there is any truth to the claims.

#1: Activated Charcoal

One of the biggest beauty buzzwords of the last few years is activated charcoal. This ingredient has made its way into face masks, shampoo, mouthwash, toothpaste and even toothbrushes!

Activated charcoal is typically used for its abrasive nature and absorption properties, making it a common ingredient in skincare and some toothpastes. When used in toothpaste, it can give you the impression that it is whitening your teeth because it may be removing surface stains which may be present from tea or coffee. However, activated charcoal can wear down your enamel which can make your teeth more susceptible to staining and lead to gum irritation.

#2: Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

A quick Google for DIY teeth whitening will likely bring up the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda method. Similarly to activated charcoal, this method is abrasive and can give the impression of whiter teeth by removing surface stains. However, this method can cause your enamel to breakdown increasing sensitivity and exposing the dentine underneath.

So, is DIY whitening safe?

While DIY treatments may give the impression of whitening your teeth, they are typically doing more harm than good. If you are interested in enhancing your smile with teeth whitening, book a consultation with your dentist to discuss a whitening treatment that best suits your needs and budget.

Book online today!