What a disappointment to look in the mirror and realize that you have a yellowed or stained smile! In any case, it is normal for the natural color of the teeth to change over time, since it is exposed to direct contact with numerous foods that tend to alter it and to the action of plaque which contributes to yellowing them. However, you can return to having a bright smile by improving some oral hygiene habits. Avoid wasting time with natural remedies whose effectiveness is not yet proven and, first of all, think about preventing the formation of spots. You can also ask your dentist what natural whitening treatments he offers his patients.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Try Homemade Whitening Remedies
Step 1. Brush your teeth with a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to remove stains
If you want an inexpensive whitening treatment, mix 1 part of hydrogen peroxide with 4 parts of baking soda in a bowl. Then, rub the paste you got on your teeth for a couple of minutes before rinsing them with water.
Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are two natural ingredients that effectively lighten teeth
Step 2. Don't use coconut oil as it hasn't been shown to whiten teeth
Rinsing the oral cavity with oil and spices is called "oil pulling". While some people claim that this method can get rid of surface stains, it hasn't been shown to effectively lighten teeth, so save coconut oil for use in your recipes!
In fact, oil pulling risks staining your teeth if it is prepared with certain spices, such as turmeric
Step 3. Use activated charcoal products with caution
You've probably heard of the natural lightening effect advertised by many activated charcoal products, such as whitening powders, pastes, and strips. While more research is needed to support these findings, you may want to try a product containing activated charcoal and see if you notice any improvements, otherwise ask your dentist for advice.
Dentists worry that activated charcoal is too abrasive for the teeth and gums, so there is a risk that it can cause damage
Step 4. Avoid rubbing acidic substances on your teeth
You have probably learned of some natural remedies based on acidic and abrasive ingredients to apply directly to the teeth. Unfortunately, these types of substances erode the enamel that protects the teeth from decay. So, avoid any home remedies that advise you to rub the following ingredients on your teeth:
- Lemon juice;
- Orange juice;
- Apple cider vinegar;
- Pineapple juice;
- Mango juice.
Part 2 of 3: Taking Care of Your Teeth
Step 1. Apply the mouthwash twice a day before brushing your teeth
Choose a product containing hydrogen peroxide and shake it in your mouth for a full minute. So, spit it out and brush your teeth.
You will need to keep using it for a few weeks before you notice the difference
Step 2. Opt for natural toothpaste if you prefer to avoid chemicals
Since the idea of what is "natural" varies from person to person, read the list of ingredients on the package to avoid products that contain substances you do not want, such as flavors, fragrances, artificial colors, but also sweeteners and preservatives; alternatively, you could make your own toothpaste.
Ask your dentist which toothpaste they recommend you buy
Advise:
buy a baking soda-based toothpaste. It is a natural ingredient that, according to some studies, is able to remove stains and whiten teeth.
Step 3. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day, to remove surface stains
Squeeze the toothpaste tube to apply it to the toothbrush and gently scrub your teeth in circular motions. Take the time to brush the sides and top of your teeth to remove plaque. If this sticky substance builds up on your teeth, it can turn them yellow and encourage the development of bacteria. Then rinse your mouth with water.
- Remember to replace your toothbrush every 3 months so that the bristles are able to weaken the plaque.
- Bacteria can also colonize your tongue, so don't forget to brush it - very gently - when you're done brushing your teeth.
Step 4. Clean the interdental spaces once a day to prevent plaque buildup
Whether it's whitening or not, buy your favorite floss and use it at least once a day. It will help you remove plaque in the hard-to-reach places where your teeth begin to turn yellow.
Since dental floss can be made from different materials, try different types to find the one that best suits your needs
Step 5. Eliminate liquids that stain your teeth
Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon and red wine in the evening risk staining your teeth. The good news is that by limiting the consumption of these drinks, it will be easier to clean and whiten your teeth naturally.
Try swallowing these liquids through a straw so they don't come in contact with your teeth. You will likely need to let the hot liquids cool down a bit before proceeding
Advise:
you don't have to run to the bathroom to brush your teeth every time you drink something that risks altering the color of your teeth. Since the acid in coffee, tea and wine temporarily weakens the enamel, it is advisable to wait an hour before brushing your teeth.
Step 6. Stop smoking to prevent nicotine from staining your teeth
Even a few cigarettes a day can turn your teeth yellow. If you are a smoker, they even risk turning brown or black, so try to quit. If you are having difficulty, join a support group or try a nicotine cessation program. It can help you break free and protect your teeth.
In addition, you should avoid chewing tobacco because, in addition to staining your teeth, it contains abrasive substances that wear down the enamel
Part 3 of 3: See Your Dentist
Step 1. Go to the dentist at least once a year
You probably already know that it is important to have regular teeth brushing. The hygienist eliminates all traces of tartar and plaque, while the dentist checks for the presence of caries by making a panoramic dental X-ray. After plaque ablation, you will have a whiter and brighter smile; moreover, during the visit you can also ask your dentist for advice on some natural whitening methods.
Depending on your oral health, she may suggest that you have more frequent cleanings. For example, it might instruct you to check out every six months
Step 2. Ask your dentist if he can recommend a natural whitening treatment to do at home
Given the huge amount of whitening products on the market, you may be undecided about the choice. However, your dentist can point you to one that is effective and safe to use. Keep in mind that any home whitening kit must comply with European legislation governing the sale of these products.
If you have gum sensitivity, your dentist's advice is even more important because many of these medical devices intended for teeth lightening can irritate your teeth and gums
Step 3. Make an appointment with your dentist for a whitening treatment if you want a brighter smile
The dentist will clean your teeth and apply a whitening solution before applying ultraviolet light. For best results, you will need to repeat the treatment four times.
