The acidity in lemons can actually erode your tooth enamel—the protective outer layer of your teeth. Once enamel is worn away, it doesn’t grow back, which can lead to increased sensitivity and make teeth more prone to staining in the long run.
If you are looking for safer ways to brighten your smile at home, here are a few more gentle options:
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Baking Soda Brushing: Use a small amount of baking soda mixed with water once or twice a week. It is a mild abrasive that can help scrub away surface stains without the high acidity of lemon.
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Whitening Toothpaste: Look for toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance; these contain gentle polishing agents or chemicals that are clinically proven to be safe for daily use.
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Hydrogen Peroxide Rinses: Many over-the-counter whitening products use a very diluted concentration of hydrogen peroxide, which is safer for enamel than fruit acids.
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Avoid Staining Foods: Limiting coffee, tea, and dark sodas—or rinsing with water after consuming them—can help prevent new stains from forming.
For significant whitening, especially for the kind of results shown in that image, professional treatments are the only way to go. The transformation in the photo likely involves professional veneers or intensive clinical whitening, rather than a home remedy.