How it works: If you're opposed to chemical-infused bleaching treatments and toothpastes, but still want whiter teeth, you might opt for a DIY remedy. "Ingredients with highly acidic content can remove stubborn surface stains, possibly even faster than whitening toothpastes," says Stirneman.
What to use: To create your own at-home whitening solution, Stirneman recommends diluting some apple cider vinegar with water and mixing with an all-natural toothpaste (such as Tom's of Maine Simply White Toothpaste, $4.99). Mix three parts water and one part vinegar with your toothpaste, brush and rinse very well, so none of the acid remains on your teeth.
When you'll see results: Within 3 months
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Best for Maintaining White Teeth
How it works: The key to keeping your teeth sparkling after using any of these treatments is to maintain your whitening routine. Try to cut back on food and drink that cause staining, especially within 24 hours after using a bleaching product, and swish with water after eating or drinking. Coffee addict? Try switching to iced coffee and drinking with a straw. If you're into tea, chug it. "Tea often stains more than coffee, because people tend to hold it in their mouths a lot longer when they drink it," says Deutch.
What to use: Deutch recommends maintaining your oral care by using a whitening fluoride rinse, such as Listerine Healthy White Restoring Anticavity Mouthrinse, $11.79, and cleaning hard-to-reach stains with Oral-B Glide 3D White Whitening Plus Scope Flavor Floss, $3.99.
When you'll see results: Continually
