Are you tired of using store-bought teeth whiteners that are filled with harsh chemicals? Are you looking for a more natural solution to brighten your smile? Look no further! Here are 5 surprising natural teeth whitening techniques that actually work.

1. Baking soda and lemon juice

This classic natural teeth whitening technique has been around for ages, and for good reason. Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help to scrub away surface stains on your teeth, while the citric acid in lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent. To use this method, mix together a small amount of baking soda and lemon juice to create a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth using a toothbrush, and let it sit for 1-2 minutes before rinsing it off. Be sure to use this technique sparingly, as the acid in the lemon juice can erode your tooth enamel if used too frequently.

2. Coconut oil pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth to remove toxins and impurities. Coconut oil is a particularly effective oil to use for this purpose, as it has natural antimicrobial properties and is rich in lauric acid, which can help to whiten your teeth. To try oil pulling for yourself, place a spoonful of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for 15-20 minutes. Spit the oil out when you're finished and brush your teeth as usual.

3. Strawberries

Yes, you read that right – strawberries can actually help to whiten your teeth! The natural malic acid in strawberries acts as a gentle astringent that can help to remove surface stains on your teeth. To use this technique, mash up a strawberry and rub it onto your teeth, or create a paste by mixing crushed strawberries with a small amount of baking soda. Leave the mixture on your teeth for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has a number of uses, and teeth whitening is one of them. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help to remove surface stains on your teeth, but it's important to use it in moderation, as the acid can also erode your tooth enamel if used too frequently. To use this technique, mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar and use it as a mouthwash. Rinse your mouth with water after using.

5. Activated charcoal

Activated charcoal is a highly porous substance that has the ability to absorb a variety of substances, including the stains on your teeth. To use this technique, wet a toothbrush and dip it into a small amount of activated charcoal. Brush your teeth as usual, making sure to get the charcoal on all surfaces of your teeth. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water when you're finished.

Try incorporating these natural teeth whitening techniques into your oral hygiene routine for a brighter, healthier smile. Do you have a favorite natural teeth whitening method that we didn't mention? Let us know in the comments!