Yellowing teeth are a common annoyance among individuals using nicotine-containing products. These spots are embarrassing and undermine the self-esteem of those affected. However, this substance has many other side effects, including oral health problems. Do not worry! Know that you are not the only one to whom nicotine has extinguished the smile by yellowing their teeth. There are several techniques to try to reduce these annoying spots.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Whiten Your Teeth at Home
Step 1. Use whitening toothpaste
Go to the supermarket and look for a product specifically designed for this purpose. Toothpastes of this type can reduce the evidence of surface stains such as those caused by smoking, as they often contain chemicals that can degrade them.
Ask your dentist to recommend a particular brand. Remember that some toothpastes can make your teeth more sensitive
Step 2. Consider using special strips and mouthwashes
In addition to toothpastes, there are other over-the-counter products that can lighten nicotine stains from your teeth. Purchase whitening strips and follow the instructions on the package. You can choose those that dissolve in the mouth or those that need to be removed after a certain period of time. This is an effective and inexpensive way to brighten your smile.
Step 3. Try the natural ingredients
In all homes there are many products that contain natural bleaching agents, especially in the kitchen. Lemon juice is a natural lightener; dilute it in water and use it as a mouthwash.
- You can also make a paste with baking soda and strawberries. Mash 2-3 fruits with a pinch of baking soda. With the help of a toothbrush, spread the mixture on your teeth and, after 5 minutes, rinse your mouth with water. These ingredients are capable of making teeth whiter and brighter.
- There are some foods that should be avoided. If you overdo it with coffee, sodas that contain cola and wine, then the nicotine stains will be even more noticeable. Try not to consume them.
Step 4. Rinse with hydrogen peroxide
Another very common household product is hydrogen peroxide and it is perfect for your purpose. Dilute a small amount (less than 30ml) with water and use it as a mouthwash. This solution can easily whiten yellowed teeth.
Another way to get sparkling teeth can be to hold the mouthwash in your mouth and then start brushing your teeth by pushing the toothbrush into your mouth through closed lips. In short, you brush your teeth with mouthwash. The end result can be surprising
Step 5. Be patient
Nicotine stains are more difficult to get rid of than those caused by food or other factors. Precisely because they are so stubborn, it will take some time for them to disappear or shrink. Know that it will take 2-3 months before you see results; don't be discouraged if you don't notice immediate improvements at first.
Method 2 of 3: Contact a Professional
Step 1. Choose your dentist wisely
For many people, a visit to the dentist is an unpleasant experience. However, if you engage in some research, you can find a professional who can make you feel comfortable and who will make all procedures less unpleasant. Ask family and friends for suggestions. You can also read online reviews from previous patients. Choose a dentist who listens carefully to your problems and who carefully explains all the options available to you.
Step 2. Get laser treatment
Your dentist may recommend this type of surgery to get rid of nicotine stains from your teeth. The procedure involves applying a peroxide solution to the teeth and then exposing them to bright light. It is a painless treatment that lasts from 15 to 60 minutes.
Step 3. Try chemical whitening
In this case, the doctor uses a whitening product to remove yellow stains from the teeth. Sometimes it is possible that the dentist will send you home with a mouthguard and a bleaching gel; it will also explain how to use it and for how long a day. In other cases the procedure will instead be performed in the clinic; both methods are painless.
Be aware of the risks. One of the most common side effects of whitening is increased tooth sensitivity. Ask your dentist for more information about this
Step 4. Consider dental veneers
These devices are made of ceramic and are basically paper-thin "shells" that cover natural teeth, giving them a healthy look and bright color. The material is applied to each tooth in several layers. Veneers are considered to be one of the best ways to whiten your teeth and brighten your smile. Ask your dentist and ask if this technique is right for you.
- There are also so-called "no-prep" veneers, which do not require the intervention of the dentist to remove the enamel before applying the varnish. They aren't good for everyone, though - talk to your dentist to see if you might be suitable.
- There are also composite veneers, which are less expensive than ceramic ones. They are made from a composite resin, a tooth-colored filling material.
Step 5. Prepare to pay expenses
Each session or visit to the dentist can be quite expensive. Even if you have private health insurance, know that whitening procedures are considered cosmetic interventions and therefore are not always reimbursed. Call the insurance agency to get all the details about your policy. Then call your dentist and ask for a quote for the whitening technique you are interested in.
Once you know how much you need to spend to get rid of nicotine stains, you can start planning your budget. Sometimes dentists accept an installment payment plan. If not, find a way to start saving
Method 3 of 3: Understanding How Nicotine Works on Teeth
Step 1. Learn about color alteration
Nicotine can quickly turn your teeth yellow. This happens every time you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco. Nicotine and tar get stuck in every slightest crack in the enamel, causing stains.
Nicotine has been shown to promote the plaque formation process, which leads to more rapid build-up of tartar and bad breath
Step 2. Know the risks of disease
In addition to yellowing, nicotine causes other health problems for your teeth and gums. You may be more prone to tooth decay, gum disease, and some cancers. All of these disorders make your mouth less healthy and make your smile look worse.
Step 3. Maintain good oral hygiene habits
One way to prevent your teeth from turning yellow is to maintain an excellent level of mouth hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day. You should use a whitening toothpaste in combination with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush your teeth firmly but gently at least twice a day.
Don't neglect the use of dental floss. Remember to go through it once a day. This will remove the foreign material that accumulates between the teeth
Step 4. Try to quit
The best way to prevent yellow teeth is to stop using nicotine. This is a very difficult process, but there are some methods you can try. Consider using support products like chewing gum and nicotine patches. There are also prescription medications that can help you. Ask your doctor for a safe and effective method.
