The following strategies may help to whiten teeth:
1. Making dietary changes
Eliminating foods that mark the teeth can prevent further staining. Foods and beverages that contain tannins, such as wine and tea, can stain the teeth. Coffee and dark sodas and juices can also stain them.
Acidic foods can make the teeth look yellow by wearing down the enamel. People who are concerned about the color of their teeth should avoid the excessive consumption of citrus, coffee, and soda. Alternatively, they should always brush their teeth after having them.
Dentists generally recommend waiting 30 minutes after eating before brushing the teeth. Acids can weaken the enamel, so brushing too soon can cause damage.
Quitting smoking or tobacco products can reduce the risk of nicotine stains. It can also prevent tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can damage the enamel and cause oral health issues.
2. Trying oil pulling
Oil pulling is the term for washing the mouth with oil to remove dirt, bacteria, and debris. It is not a substitute for regular brushing or flossing, but some research suggests that washing the mouth with certain oils may help to whiten the teeth.
The American Dental Association (ADA) consider oil pulling to be unconventional dentistry, stating, “there are no reliable scientific studies to show that oil pulling reduces cavities, whitens teeth, or improves oral health and well-being.”
To try this method, rinse the mouth with oil for a minute after brushing, then spit it out.
Oils suitable for oil pulling include:
- coconut oil
- sunflower oil
- sesame oil
3. Brushing with baking soda
Baking soda can gently polish away stains on the surface of the teeth. Some people worry that baking soda is too harsh and may grind away enamel, but research from 2017 found it to be a safe way to remove stains.
Baking soda may also help to fight bacteria, which suggests that it may be able to reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
4. Using hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that can help to whiten stained teeth. For optimal whitening, a person can try brushing with a mix of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for 1–2 minutes twice a day for a week. They should only do this occasionally.
Hydrogen peroxide may increase tooth sensitivity, so it is not suitable for long-term use or for people who already have sensitive teeth.
5. Whitening with fruit
Papain and bromelain, which are enzymes that occur in papayas and pineapples respectively, may both help to whiten teeth.
A 2012 study found preliminary evidence that solutions containing these ingredients could offer modest whitening effects. However, the authors of the study caution that more research is necessary to determine whether or not these enzymes are effective.
6. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is the most important thing that a person can do to reduce tooth yellowing.
Regular brushing and flossing protects the enamel, prevents gum decay, and removes stains.
Good oral hygiene includes:
- Brushing the teeth at least twice a day. A person should be sure to also clean around the gums and the backs of the teeth.
- Using a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride can fight and even reverse tooth decay. Though some people oppose using fluoride, dentists believe that fluoride is safe and beneficial for teeth.
- Flossing to remove plaque between the teeth.
