A good smile, they say, is the best accessory. There is something natural and pure about a carefree smile, that can attract anyone in a heartbeat. However, there are times it can have the exact opposite effect, given your teeth are not white. Yes, it does sound shallow and superficial, but it's true. Perhaps because white teeth, usually, are the direct indicators of good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle? Whatever the case may be, it's safe to conclude that teeth whitening is an extremely important facet of the whole grooming game that often goes unnoticed. After all, going to the dentist is a chore, and realistically, no one wants to do that unless they are dying of toothache. Keeping that in mind, we have compiled a list of 6 ways in which you can whiten your teeth at home, and also improve overall oral hygiene, without having to go to a dentist.

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Baking Soda is a mild abrasive with whitening properties. Studies have shown that brushing with baking soda a few times in a week can help whiten your teeth significantly. However, please don't be in a hurry and do it every single day, because the abrasive property of baking soda can erode your teeth enamel.

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Oil pulling is an old Indian practice where oil is used to extract toxins out of the body by swishing it around the mouth for a few minutes. It is believed to improve your oral hygiene, and whiten your teeth as well. The best thing about oil pulling is that there is no side effect associated with it, and it can be done with any oil. However, coconut oil and sesame oil are your best bets. To do it, take a tablespoon of oil in your mouth and swish it around, through your teeth, for about 15 minutes, and spit it out.

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Apple Cider Vinegar is made of Acetic acid, which is an antibacterial agent, and also a natural disinfectant as well as cleaning agent. Using apple cider vinegar as a mouthwash can significantly decrease bacterial growth in your mouth, and also whiten your teeth. However, please don't do it very often, because vinegar can soften your teeth if prolonged contact is maintained. Also, every time you use it as a mouth wash, use plain water to rinse your mouth after a few minutes.

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Pineapple and strawberry are known to help with the problem of discolouration of teeth. You can brush with a mixture of strawberries and baking soda a few times a week to get whiter teeth within a few weeks. Also, a diet containing enough vegetables help you keep your teeth stronger, and healthier.

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An old Indian practice, again, brushing with powdered charcoal helps you get whiter teeth, and also detoxify your mouth.

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You cannot ignore these two steps because they are the most basic procedures.  Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly are the only ways to make sure that food doesn't stick to your teeth and mouth cavities, thereby making sure staining doesn't happen. Make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss once every day.