How to Clean Enamel on Elk Teeth

At one time, elk were hunted and killed just for their ivory canine teeth. Collectors use elk ivory for necklaces, cuff links, rings and more. If you don't purchase elk teeth from a specialty shop where the ivory has been cleaned and polished, you'll have to clean the ivory on your own. Cleaning elk teeth is a delicate, time-consuming process. All you'll need is a few household items and a bit of patience.

Things You'll Need

• Peroxide
• Metal file
• Toothbrush
• Dish soap
• Bowl
• Pumice stone
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Soak the elk teeth in a bowl of peroxide for a few hours. Remove the elk teeth periodically to see if the tissue attached to the teeth is loosening.

2. Once the tissue has softened, remove it with a small file. Be careful not to file the teeth enamel. Remove all of the tissue, or just scrape it down to the gum line.

3. Wash the teeth in soapy water. Mild dish detergent works best. Gently scrub the teeth with a soft bristled toothbrush while they're submerged in water.

4. Rinse off the teeth and scrub them gently with a finely-powdered pumice stone while submerged under water.

5. Place the wet teeth in a windowsill where they will get a lot of sun. The teeth will whiten in the sun. Repeat the process; scrub the teeth with the pumice stone and place in the sun until the teeth whiten to the desired shade.

6. Buff the dry teeth with a soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Rinse the elk teeth in fresh milk after buffing.

• Do not use bleach on the elk teeth. Do not let the wet elk teeth sit outside without the protection of a glass surface. When using a toothbrush and pumice stone, be careful not to scrub at the teeth too harshly.