Cosmetic

Are there natural ways to whiten teeth?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: There's no proven natural way to bleach teeth. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth, limiting staining drinks and tobacco, and getting professional cleanings help remove surface stains. The ADA warns that DIY methods such as scrubbing with acidic fruit, vinegar or charcoal can wear away enamel, which can make teeth look more yellow.

What actually helps with surface stains

  • Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Stain-removal toothpastes use mild abrasives or polishing agents.
  • Clean between your teeth every day.
  • Cut back on coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco, which stain teeth.
  • Get regular professional cleanings, which remove stain and tartar that brushing can't.

DIY methods to be careful with

  • Acidic fruit and vinegar. The ADA says lemon, orange and apple cider vinegar contain acid. Long contact or scrubbing with them can wear away enamel.
  • Charcoal. The ADA notes there's no evidence that charcoal dental products are safe or effective.
  • Rough scrubs. Overly abrasive pastes can wear enamel and expose the yellower layer underneath, called dentin.

If you want a real color change

Peroxide-based whitening, from the store or from your dentist, is what changes tooth color. The ADA recommends talking with your dentist first and looking for products with the ADA Seal.

At Indy Smile Group

If you want teeth that look whiter than a cleaning alone can make them, we offer in-office whitening (starting at $399) and custom take-home whitening (starting at $249). Whitening prices are the same at all three offices and cover both arches. “Starting at” applies to regular in-office and regular take-home whitening; KöR whitening costs more, so call for details. Your dentist checks your teeth and gums first and confirms your price before treatment. Results vary, and whitening doesn't change the color of fillings, crowns or veneers. See our whitening page.
Whitening prices as of November 2026.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Does baking soda whiten teeth?
Baking soda is abrasive and can remove some surface stains, but scrubbing with abrasive mixtures can wear enamel. Ask your dentist before using DIY pastes.

Does oil pulling whiten teeth?
According to the ADA, there's no reliable scientific evidence that oil pulling or turmeric whitens teeth.

Will a dental cleaning make my teeth whiter?
A cleaning removes surface stain and tartar, which can brighten your smile. It doesn't change the natural shade of your teeth.

Sources

  1. ADA MouthHealthy – Natural Teeth Whitening: Fact vs. Fiction
  2. ADA MouthHealthy – Teeth Whitening

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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