Everyone wants whiter teeth. Teeth whitening procedures at the dentist or those whitening strips found at your local drugstore may be effective, but they are also pretty expensive. You can get a brighter smile overnight using a few home remedies and items you may already have in your pantry. Try these remedies for a whiter smile—and the best part is it won't cost you anything.

Strawberries

Yes, that's right, strawberries. Mash them and rub them onto your teeth like a paste. Brush your teeth with your regular fluoride toothpaste afterwards. There is an acid in strawberries that works as a natural whitening agent. 

Baking Soda

Use baking soda sprinkled on your regular toothpaste and brush your teeth with the mixture. This is not something you should do more than once per week, as it is mildly abrasive. You can also apply a mixture of baking soda and toothpaste (2 tablespoons each) to your teeth using aluminum foil, or a mouth guard if you have one. Apply to your teeth and leave it on for a half an hour. Then rinse your mouth out.

Peroxide

Gargle with a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. This homemade mouth rinse will help clean your teeth of bacteria, while also whitening your teeth.

DIY Toothpaste

Make a more potent toothpaste at home using table salt, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. This toothpaste will help to eliminate stains on your teeth.

Lemon

For this fruit remedy, squeeze a lemon into some water and gargle with it. Do not apply the lemon directly to your teeth, as it can have a negative effect on your enamel. Rinse with the lemon water and follow up by brushing your teeth with your regular toothpaste. Be sure not to use this remedy more than twice weekly, so you do not damage your enamel or cause tooth sensitivity.

Other Whitening Tips

• Avoid coffee and tea
• Drink plenty of water
• Brush twice daily for at least 2 minutes
• Eat apples
• Stay away from tobacco products like smoking or chewing tobacco
• Rinse your mouth after eating

These methods are good for preventing teeth stains, but you should still see your dentist for regular checkups. Regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist will help ensure not only a brighter smile, but a healthier smile as well. Talk to a dentist like Savini Daniel DDS about other ways to keep your teeth and gums looking healthy, white and bright.