Yellow teeth can be a significant source of embarrassment for many people. While it’s normal for teeth to become slightly discolored over time, excessive yellowing can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor dental hygiene, genetics, aging, and lifestyle choices. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to whiten your teeth at home without breaking the bank or resorting to expensive dental procedures. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most useful tips to help you get rid of yellow teeth at home.
1) Brush Your Teeth Regularly
A recent study has shown that Australians have the worst teeth in the developed world. This is not a great thing to hear for any Australian, but it makes it all the more important to strive to fix the problem, one step at a time.
The most basic and essential step in maintaining good oral hygiene is brushing your teeth twice a day. Brushing helps to remove plaque and surface stains from the teeth. When brushing, ensure that you use a fluoride toothpaste that has been approved by your dentist. Brush your teeth gently in circular motions for at least two minutes. Additionally, don’t forget to brush your tongue, which can harbor bacteria that cause bad breath.
2) Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener that can be found in most households. It works by scrubbing away surface stains and polishing the teeth. To use baking soda, mix a small amount with water to create a paste. Then, apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water afterward. It’s essential to note that baking soda can be abrasive and should not be used more than once a week.
3) Visit Your Dentist
If your teeth are severely discolored or you’re not seeing results with at-home remedies, it’s essential to consult your dentist. Your dentist can recommend professional teeth whitening options, such as laser teeth whitening or custom-made whitening trays. Additionally, your dentist can identify any underlying dental problems that may be causing the yellowing of your teeth and provide treatment options. Thankfully, you can find a high-quality dentist in St. Leonard.
4) Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that can help to whiten teeth. To use hydrogen peroxide, mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Then, swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water afterward. It’s essential to note that hydrogen peroxide can be harmful if ingested, so avoid swallowing the solution.
5) Eat Teeth-Friendly Foods
Certain foods can help to keep your teeth healthy and white. Foods that are high in calcium, such as milk and cheese, can help to strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay. Additionally, foods that are crunchy, such as apples and carrots, can help to scrub away surface stains from your teeth.
6) Limit Your Intake of Staining Foods
Certain foods and drinks can stain your teeth over time, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda. To prevent staining, limit your intake of these beverages or use a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth. Additionally, try to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after consuming these foods and drinks. Cutting down on these types of food won’t just improve your oral situation but it will also have great health benefits in the long run.
7) Quit Smoking
Smoking is a significant cause of yellow teeth, as well as several other dental problems. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes can stain your teeth and cause them to become yellow or brown over time. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral health and overall well-being.
8) Use Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste can be an effective way to remove surface stains and prevent the yellowing of teeth. These kinds of toothpaste contain ingredients such as baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and activated charcoal, which help to whiten teeth. However, it’s essential to note that these kinds of toothpaste may not work for everyone and may take several weeks of consistent use to see results.
9) Try Natural Teeth Whitening Remedies
There are several natural remedies that can help to whiten your teeth, including:
• Apple cider vinegar: Mix a small amount of apple cider vinegar with water and swish it around in your mouth for a few minutes before rinsing with water.
• Lemon juice: Mix a small amount of lemon juice with baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth for two minutes before rinsing with water.
• Strawberries: Mash up a few strawberries and apply the paste to your toothbrush. Brush your teeth for two minutes before rinsing with water.
It’s essential to note that natural remedies may not be as effective as other methods and may have side effects. Always consult with your dentist before trying any natural remedies.
10) Try Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an age-old technique that revolves around the swishing of oil in a person’s mouth in order to remove toxins and bacteria. Coconut oil is the most commonly used oil for oil pulling due to its antibacterial properties. To try oil pulling, put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for 10-15 minutes. Spit the oil out afterward and rinse your mouth with water.
11) Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water is not only beneficial for your overall health, but it can also help to prevent the yellowing of teeth. Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria that can cause stains on teeth. Additionally, water can stimulate the production of saliva, which helps to neutralize harmful acids in the mouth that can cause tooth decay and yellowing. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially after meals, to keep your teeth healthy and white.
There are several effective ways to get rid of yellow teeth at home, ranging from basic dental hygiene practices to natural remedies and lifestyle changes. By following these tips, you can whiten your teeth and maintain good oral health without breaking the bank or resorting to expensive dental procedures. However, if your teeth are severely discolored, it’s essential to consult your dentist for a professional cleaning or other treatment options. So make sure those teeth stay white and healthy!