Want a quick and easy way to whiten and brighten teeth when retouching? Did you know that brushes have a Mode that you can set, which works like a layer blend? Let me show you how this can work for retouching.

Start by duplicating the Background layer or merging all of the visible layers into a new layer.

Select the brush tool. I recommend a small, soft brush. Set the foreground to white.

To neutralize stains on teeth, you want to use "Color" mode and low opacity, so you can build the effect up over successive strokes. Be careful and only brush over the teeth. If you brush over the gums or lips, you will desaturate them and they will start to look gray. This is a great way to whiten teeth.

To brighten teeth, you use instead use "Soft Light" mode and low opacity. Then just brush in some instant tooth brightening. No need for messy trays or plastic strips and fizzy chemicals!

I hope this tip improves your digital photography!

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