How to whiten teeth more effectively

A clean bright smile can boost your confidence significantly. But if you have yellow teeth you can find yourself covering your mouth during conversations. They can put you in a socially awkward situation. There are various reasons why teeth appear yellow. The good thing is you can achieve white teeth in just a few steps. In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons behind yellow teeth and some natural methods you can incorporate into your daily life for a white smile.

Why do teeth turn yellow

There are a lot of factors that contribute to teeth yellowing. Some common causes are discussed below:

1. Foods/Drinks

There are pigments or chemicals in certain foods that can stick to the enamel. As a result, staining occurs. Here are some foods that can cause yellowing of teeth:

Tomato sauce
Balsamic vinegar
Curry
Berries
Citrus fruits

Tea and coffee can cause teeth staining. Other than that red and white wine are also causing this staining. Dark and light sodas, sports drinks with artificial flavourings, and energy drinks also cause yellow teeth surfaces.

2. Poor dental hygiene

Inadequate cleaning leads to plaque formation. Plaque can cause yellow teeth and stains. Antibiotics can cause yellowing of teeth.

3. Medication

Antihistamines, drugs for high blood pressure, and mental drugs are some potential causes for staining teeth.

4. Dental materials

Some dental materials contain silver sulfide like amalgams. They can discolor teeth.

7. Age

Teeth turn yellow with age [1]. Most teeth turn yellow as this enamel thins with age.

8. Wear

The outer layer of teeth includes enamel. Underneath enamel is dentin which has a yellowish hue. With age the enamel thins or wears away, which exposes dentin the dentin makes the teeth look yellow or darker.

Tips to whiten your teeth

People have been using natural remedies for years and no doubt natural remedies work. You can follow simple natural remedies that can help remove stains on your teeth. Here are some ways to teeth whitening at home:

1. Good oral hygiene routine

There are plenty of products available in the market for teeth. Make sure to choose the ones that are recommended by dentists. Because most of these products use bleach to whiten teeth. Brush twice a day. If you don’t brush your teeth properly plaque can build up leading to yellow teeth. Also, it’s important to use mouthwash and dental floss.

You can also check out 7 rules for healthy teeth that can guide you to achieve good oral hygiene.

2. Oil pulling

Oil pulling originated in India. It is a traditional method of teeth whitening. It has various dental benefits. This action is just like a mouthwash but replaced with oils. Coconut oil is commonly used and is considered safe [2]. Other options are olive oil and sea oil, in case of allergies.
When you swirl oil in your mouth, it sticks bacteria from your teeth and excretes it out. A step-by-step guide to oil pulling is as follows:

Measure one teaspoon of oil of your choice.
Think of it as your mouthwash. Swirl it around your mouth for fifteen to twenty minutes.
Do not swallow it.
Spit out the oil when done.
Clean your mouth with water.

3. Teeth whitening strips

Using teeth whitening strips is pretty easy. Just directly apply strips onto your teeth and avoid brushing before usage. You might be wondering how these work. They are polythene strips coated with carbamide or hydrogen peroxide.

5. Teeth whitening chewing gum

Chewing gum is the least complicated procedure that is effective in whitening your teeth. You have to pick the right gum for effective brightening. Sugar-free gum is what you should look for.

Check out teeth whitening with chewing gum for a more detailed analysis.

6. Increase Calcium Intake

Calcium is the major component of our teeth. By getting enough calcium in our diet, the outer layer of our enamel strengthens. It acts as a shield against bacteria and acid which cause tooth yellowing.

Things to avoid to keep your teeth white

1. Avoid foods that stain teeth

As stated above certain foods can cause teeth staining. Tannins present in these foods stain your teeth. Acidic foods can make teeth look yellow. The natural teeth whitening strategy is to avoid the consumption of such foods [3]. You should always brush your teeth after having these foods/ beverages.

2. Avoid smoking

Smoking and chewing tobacco are causing chronic staining of teeth. They also lead to tooth decay and other dental diseases. It may be difficult to avoid smoking. But if you have concerns about your stained teeth, it is time for you to quit smoking.

Conclusion

Yellow teeth give a dull appearance to an individual. However, yellow teeth have convenient solutions. You can try out any suitable teeth whitening remedy at your home. Remember to brush your teeth effectively to prevent oral issues like teeth staining. You may add an extra step of baking soda or coconut oil. You will get brighter teeth and you will smile more around people with confidence.