Yellow teeth can be unsightly and, more importantly, a sign of poor oral hygiene. While there are several contributing factors to yellowing teeth, the most common cause is plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky biofilm that accumulates on your teeth and gums due to bacteria in your mouth. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce or even eliminate your yellow teeth. Let’s look at some of the most effective ways to deal with yellow teeth.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
The best way to prevent plaque buildup and keep your teeth white is by brushing and flossing regularly. You should brush at least twice daily for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste. Flossing once a day will help remove food particles stuck between your teeth that can lead to plaque formation if not removed regularly.
Be sure to brush gently around the gum line so as not to cause any damage or irritation. Use a soft toothbrush, as stiff bristles can cause gum recession and further yellowing your teeth. You want to keep your teeth free from plaque buildup, but don’t brush aggressively because it can cause more harm than good.
2. Whitening Toothpaste
Special whitening toothpaste products on the market contain ingredients such as baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and other natural whitening agents that help remove surface stains on your teeth caused by foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, etc. These kinds of toothpaste are safe for daily use and can help remove surface stains without making drastic changes in your oral hygiene routine.
But make sure only to use toothpaste that is specifically designed for whitening, as other kinds of toothpaste may contain abrasive ingredients that can make your teeth appear more yellow.
3. Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are an excellent option if you are dealing with yellow teeth alongside other issues like cracks and chips. A professional dentist can fit you with thin custom porcelain or composite resin shells that fit over the front surface of your teeth, creating a much whiter and more aesthetically pleasing smile.
While veneers are pretty costly and require multiple visits to the dentist, they are an excellent option for those who don’t want to bother with home remedies or over-the-counter products. But note that this is a permanent solution, and you will need to replace the veneers once in a while since they can wear down over time.
4. Avoid Certain Foods and Beverages
Common culprits behind yellow teeth include coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sodas. While these beverages may be enjoyable and beneficial to your health in moderation, they can stain your teeth over time. The same goes for foods like blueberries, blackberries, and soy sauce.
Try to limit or avoid these foods and drinks as much as possible if you want to keep your teeth white and healthy. You can also rinse your mouth with water after enjoying them to help reduce their staining effects.
5. Professional Whitening Treatments
For more severe cases of discoloration or yellowing, it may be necessary to consult a dentist for professional treatments such as bleaching or laser whitening. Bleaching involves applying a hydrogen peroxide-based gel directly onto the surface of the teeth, which then reacts with oxygen molecules to break down discolored molecules on the enamel and restore its original coloration.
Laser whitening is another option that involves targeting specific areas of discoloration with powerful lasers to break down stained molecules while also stimulating saliva production, which helps keep plaque away from the treated area for more extended periods than usual. Both treatments are very effective but can be expensive depending on how severe your case is. Hence, it’s essential to consult with a professional before making any decisions about treatment options.
6. Baking Soda
Baking soda may be the answer if you want a simple and natural way to whiten your teeth. It’s been used for centuries as a stain remover, and it’s also quite effective at removing bacteria that can cause bad breath. All you need to do is mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a little bit of water to form a paste, and then use it to brush your teeth for around two minutes.
The baking soda works by lightly abrading the enamel to remove surface stains, but it’s important to only do this once or twice per week since baking soda can be quite abrasive and can damage tooth enamel if used too frequently. Be sure to always rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away any residue.
Yellow teeth can be a persistent and embarrassing problem, but with the right treatment plan in place, you can restore your teeth to their natural white color. From brushing with whitening toothpaste to professional treatments, plenty of options are available to help you get the smile you desire. Just remember to always consult with a professional before making any decisions about treatment options.
