To spend or not to spend a lot of money on getting your teeth whitened—that is the question! Why not try a natural way to pearlier whites? Here’s what you do…

Burn a piece of toast—really char it. Then pulverize the charred bread (we just crushed it with a mortar and pestle, since a blender would be a pain to clean—you also can use a wooden spoon handle in a small bowl). Mix it with about one-half teaspoon of honey, and brush your teeth with it. Rinse thoroughly. Put on a pair of sunglasses, look in the mirror and smile! Do this whenever your teeth seem to be on the dingy side. Also, eat a healthy diet and don’t smoke.

Warning: Diabetics should not use honey without a doctor’s say-so…nor people allergic to honey (natch).

More help with your teeth…

• Look 15 Years Younger Just by Going to the Dentist

• Surprising Causes of Cavities

• Don’t Make These Mistakes When Brushing and Flossing