Teeth Stains: How to Remove and Prevent

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What causes teeth to look yellow?

Not all of us are blessed with white teeth. Multiple factors cause teeth to become dull and lose their bright, white sparkle. Changes in the color of your teeth may be subtle and happen gradually. Some yellow color may be inevitable.

Certain foods can stain your enamel, which is the outermost layer of your teeth. Additionally, plaque buildup on your teeth can cause them to look yellow. Teeth can look more yellow or darken especially as you age. If you’re looking to whiten your teeth, you do have some alternatives to conventional methods.

Please be careful with at-home whitening because you may damage your teeth if products are used incorrectly or for too much time. You may wear away too much of your enamel, which could put you at risk for sensitivity and cavities.

Here are some natural options for getting rid of yellow teeth.

Remedies for yellow teeth

1. Brush with baking soda

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Baking soda contains natural tooth whitening properties, which is why it is a popular ingredient in commercial toothpaste. Though this remedy will not remove tooth stains overnight, you will notice a significant improvement over time. Baking soda also forms an alkaline environment in your mouth thus preventing harmful bacteria from growing. Mix baking soda and water, and brush your teeth with it every few days to supplement your typical oral care routine. You should see noticeable changes in the color of your teeth within weeks.

2. Use hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that also kills bacteria in your mouth. In fact, people have been using hydrogen peroxide for decades to disinfect wounds because of its ability to kill bacteria.

One way to use hydrogen peroxide is as a mouthwash before you brush your teeth. Make sure you are using a 1.5% or 3% solution to avoid side effects. Another way to use hydrogen peroxide is by mixing it with baking soda to make toothpaste. Combine 2 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and gently brush your teeth with the mixture.

Limit the use of this homemade paste to a few times per week, as overuse can erode your tooth enamel.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

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Apple cider vinegar contains an antibacterial property that makes it useful for removing tooth stains and cleaning the mouth. However, you should not use this remedy every day because it contains acetic acid, a substance that is known to weaken tooth enamel. To use vinegar as a tooth whitening remedy, dilute it with water and hold it in your mouth for several minutes. Spit the solution and then rinse your mouth thoroughly with plain water.

4. Oil pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian folk remedy meant to improve oral hygiene and remove toxins from the body. Traditionally, Indians used sunflower or sesame oil for oil pulling, but any oil will work.

Coconut oil is a popular choice because it has a pleasant taste and offers many health benefits. Coconut oil is also high in lauric acid, which is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

To oil pull, put 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and push and pull the oil through your teeth. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, so you may need to wait a few seconds for it to melt. Continue the oil pulling for 15–20 minutes.

Unlike many other tooth whitening methods, coconut oil pulling does not expose your teeth to acid or other ingredients that erode the enamel. This means it’s safe to do daily.

5. Certain Fruit

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A diet rich in fruits can be helpful for both your general body health and your teeth. In particular, pineapples and strawberries are two fruits that are powerful in removing tooth stains. Smash fresh strawberries and mix with baking soda to form a fine paste. Brush your teeth with the paste and rinse your mouth. Pineapples, on the other hand, contain properties that help whiten teeth if consumed regularly.

Prevent tooth stains before they happen

While your teeth naturally yellow as you age, some things can help prevent stains on your teeth.

Limit staining foods and beverages

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Coffee, red wine, soda, and dark berries are infamous for staining teeth. That doesn’t mean you have to completely avoid them, but you should limit the amount of time these substances are in contact with your teeth.

If possible, drink beverages known to stain teeth out of a straw to prevent direct contact with your teeth. Moreover, brush your teeth soon after consuming one of these foods or beverages to limit their effects on the color of your teeth.

Additionally, avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, as both can cause tooth discoloration.

Limit your sugar intake

If you want whiter teeth, cut back on your sugar intake. A diet high in sugar supports the growth of Streptococcus mutans, the primary type of bacteria that causes plaque and gingivitis When you consume a sugary food, be sure to brush your teeth soon after.

Get plenty of calcium in your diet

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