Yellowing of teeth can occur at any point in life. Many people aren’t aware of this and end up feeling stigmatized and experiencing self-esteem issues. If it’s not genetic, the right course of action can remedy this quite easily.
Yellow teeth can be caused by various reasons. The natural one is thinning of the outer enamel layer. This thinning exposes the inner layer called dentin. A person’s lifestyle could also cause yellowing teeth; however, yellowing teeth doesn’t necessarily mean poor oral hygiene. Certain food types, drinks like coffee, antibiotics, smoking, and fluorosis could also cause yellow teeth. Patients undergoing chemotherapy develop yellowing teeth as well.
Combined with poor oral hygiene, the effects can be damaging. However, there are home remedies that you can use to get rid of yellow teeth. Just make sure to combine these remedies with regular visits to your family dentist so that your dentist can provide you with proper dental care and monitor your progress.
Here are 6 hacks you can use at home to get rid of yellow teeth:
In This Article
1. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling involves taking a mouthful of oil and swishing the liquid in your mouth to remove bacteria. The bacteria in the mouth can turn into plaque and eventually cause teeth to be yellow. Oil pulling is a traditional Indian practice; however, sunflower or sesame oil is more commonly used. However, one can also use coconut oil or mustard oil mixed with salt. Compounds in these oils can help improve your oral hygiene and prevent tooth decay.
Swish the oil in your mouth for up to 15 minutes to be effective. The oils contain enzymes that help kill the bacteria and avoid plaque formation. Using these oils is safer because they don’t contain acids or chemicals that affect the enamel.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide is used as an oxidizing agent. It’s a disinfectant but also has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. It’s available over the counter and can be used as a mouthwash or mixed with baking soda as toothpaste. When using it as a mouthwash, it’s recommended to dilute the solution with water in equal parts ratio. Always spit out the solution and rinse your mouth thoroughly after use. When used with baking soda, the ratio is the same.
Using hydrogen peroxide daily will see your teeth whitening over time. This product can be used once daily in a solution after a meal.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
The apple cider vinegar is obtained from the double fermentation of apple juice. It has several health benefits due to its nutritional composition. To get rid of yellow teeth, dilute with water in the ratio of two to six parts of water and use as a mouth wash. Thoroughly rinse your mouth with water after.
4. Fruit Peels
You could also use banana peels to rub on your teeth daily. Use the inner side of the peel to rub on your teeth. This should be followed by brushing your teeth and rinsing. Compounds found in the peels help whiten the teeth when used daily. The compounds are absorbed into the enamel and help kill bacteria on the teeth’s surface. Brushing after rubbing helps remove any plaque or bacteria that has formed on the teeth.
5. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is charcoal that has been modified for medical use. This type of charcoal is used on yellow teeth as it’s very absorbent; it also helps rid your teeth of bacteria and plaque. You can use it as a mouthwash or toothpaste. Just make sure to rinse well with water afterwards.
When using as a paste, apply on the surface of the teeth and use your finger to rub over the teeth gently. Do this for about two to three minutes. You can use activated charcoal two or three times a week. On the other days, brush with regular toothpaste.
6. Baking Soda
Baking soda, also called bicarbonate of soda, is a common household ingredient. Daily consumption of acidic food and drinks can damage your teeth. Coffee, tea, and wine contain acids that, over time, eat away the enamel layer of your teeth. Baking soda is alkaline-based and helps remedy the effects of the acids. It’s also a mild abrasive and can help remove stains on your teeth.
You can use baking soda together with hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening. A point to note is using a soft bristle toothbrush to rub the teeth surface gently. Alternatively, you can use your finger. This method avoids excessive abrasion on the teeth, leading to the enamel layer wearing out.
Conclusion
Getting rid of yellow teeth can easily be done at home. It involves doing so routinely to experience the desired results. As outlined, you don’t have to spend much money to remedy yellow teeth problems. Moreover, the remedies listed above don’t require a lot of time and are easy to monitor for results.
Teeth are an essential part of the human body, and regular care is required. The hacks outlined can help take care of the teeth cost-effectively.
