And once we decide we want whiter teeth, we tend to want to get started right away. At-home teeth whitening techniques promise a brighter smile with minimal cost or time investment. But that doesn't mean it's a great idea to try any DIY teeth whitening treatment you read about right away. Check with your dentist before trying any new teeth treatments, even if the ingredients sound unobjectionable to you. Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda are two other popular at-home teeth whiteners.

Hydrogen peroxide is well known for its power to whiten teeth, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea to use it on your own. Hydrogen peroxide can be toxic if ingested in large amounts, so any remedy would have to make sure you don't swallow it, but allow enough exposure to actually lighten stains.

Baking soda is also known to be effective at whitening teeth but it can be abrasive when used incorrectly. The abrasiveness of baking soda can can cause weakened enamel and increase tooth sensitivity. Certain preparations claim to combine the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda in the proper ratio to keep the baking soda from thinning the enamel, but it's not a gamble dentists want you to take regularly.

To get the benefit of these powerful smile brightening ingredients at home, look for products made with hydrogen peroxide or baking soda. Check with your dentist to find products that provide the effectiveness without the risk of damaging your teeth. Whitening toothpaste is a great type of product that has recommended teeth-strengthening ingredients such as fluoride in addition to the power of ingredients like hydrogen peroxide and baking soda — in the right amounts that make them safe for your teeth.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.