Tooth discolouration can be caused by a variety of factors that include tobacco use, food choices, and poor dental hygiene. Fortunately, there are a variety of dental products and procedures that will allow you to restore the natural whiteness of your teeth. These are readily available at the nearest grocery store or dental office.
However, if you want to opt for more natural methods, there are a few simple remedies you can do at home. Consider the following at-home procedures to brighten your smile.
#1 Brush your teeth regularly
Some tooth discolouration is the result of plaque build-up on your teeth which is, in turn, typically brought about by poor oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly removes the bacteria, preventing plaque build-up, and keeping your teeth stain-free.
If you have had your invisalign in Ottawa, it is also recommended to clean it to avoid food debris stuck in your mouth. Food debris can cause gingivitis and other oral health problems if left untreated.
#2 Consider oil pulling
Oil pulling involves the use of coconut, sesame, olive and palm oil and swishing it around your mouth. A few studies have found this method to be effective in removing plaque buildup and preventing gingivitis. Although there is no conclusive evidence that it makes teeth whiter, the reduction of plaque alone gets rid of and prevents stains, along with other benefits like reducing gum inflammation.
#3 Brush With Baking Soda
Toothpastes containing baking soda are effective whiteners, able to reduce stains from teeth better than toothpaste without. While research has not been able to determine if baking soda alone can remove discolouration as effectively, it’s worth a shot.
To use baking soda, mix 1 teaspoon of it with 2 teaspoons of water. Brush your teeth using this paste a few times every week.
#4 Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that also acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria in your mouth. Whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide for its whitening effect. However, this has to be used with caution. High concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can irritate gums and result in tooth sensitivity.
You can use it in two ways:
- Mouthwash – Use a 1.5% or 3% (mixed with water) solution and swish it in your mouth before you brush your teeth.
- Paste – This method involves mixing 2 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Use this mixture like you would a toothpaste, brushing your teeth gently.
Use it only a few times per week to avoid damaging your teeth
#5 Alter your diet
Changing what you eat and drink can prevent the yellowing of teeth. Follow these few guidelines to help you avert discolouration:
- Avoid sugary food and beverages. Sugar transforms into acid in your mouth turning into plaque. Avoid these foods to prevent staining plaque buildup.
- Avoid eating foods and beverages that cause stains. This includes:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Tomato-based products
- Soy sauce
- Red wine
- Soda
- Turmeric
- Berries
Although you don’t need to cut these out of your diet completely, limiting your intake of these products can reduce the discolouration of teeth. If you do eat any of these, wash it down with water and brush your teeth after 30 minutes.
- Eat nutrient-rich food. This can help strengthen enamel to keep it from wearing away. Make sure they have vitamins including:
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Calcium
- Iron
- Potassium
Eat fibrous foods (like apples and celery), leafy greens (like broccoli and spinach), and calcium-rich food (like milk and cheese).
#6 Avoid using tobacco
Tobacco stains teeth in addition to causing a variety of serious illnesses. If you use tobacco — whether smoking or chewing it — you may want to consider quitting, both to restore your pearly whites and to prevent major health disorders associated with it.
Methods to Avoid
The following methods are quite popular and are often shared on social media pages. However, they have not been proven to be safe or effective. Some studies go so far as to suggest that they may harm teeth
- Activated charcoal – It is believed to remove toxins from the mouth and scrub stains from teeth. However, studies suggest that charcoal can get stuck in the gums and irritate them. They may also be too abrasive and can chip away at enamel.
- Fruit peels – According to experts, eating the fruit itself would give you better results than using the peel. Fruit peels contain harmful acids which can break down the enamel. Simply put, don’t do it.
To whiten teeth effectively, use natural solutions for preventing tooth discoloration in tandem with treatments recommended by your dentist. Sarnia is home to a variety of excellent dental clinics if you’re looking for a clinic near you.
If you’re having difficulties finding a reliable dentist near you, Local SEO Search listed the top 10 local dentist in London, Ontario.
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