How to Remove Tooth Stains
Whitening toothpaste and mouthwash Whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes can be swapped out for your normal products and feature a special formulation that’s designed to lift stains from your teeth. These products generally use abrasives to gently scrub stains from the surface of your tooth, but some also include bleaching agents for removing deep-set stains. Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes work gradually. They’re meant to slowly lift stains off your teeth after repeated daily use.
Chewable tooth whitening lozenge Chewable teeth whitening lozenges are innovative products that allow you to easily remove stains from your teeth. The Jemz Smile teeth whitening chewable lozenges contain both peroxide and baking soda to whiten your teeth without any risk of sensitivity or having to deal with messy solutions like gels or strips. To use the product, simply remove the whitener and activation pieces from the packaging and chew them simultaneously. Keep chewing the stain-removal lozenges for 15-30 minutes, then spit it out and enjoy your immediately brightened teeth. It’s safe to repeat these steps and use the products on a daily basis. Not only do these easy-to-use tooth-whitening chewable lozenges work instantly to whiten teeth, but they’re also formulated to freshen up your breath and promote healthy gums.
Tooth whitening strips As one of the most popular at-home methods for removing tooth stains, tooth whitening strips use strips of pre-applied whitening gel to easily apply the product to your teeth. To use these strips, you simply stick them onto your teeth and follow package instructions to know how long to leave them. As the strips sit on your teeth, the gel will work to bleach out any stains and whiten the overall look of your teeth. Be mindful that whitening strips can cause tooth sensitivity, so it’s best to discuss treatment with your dentist before using the strips. Also, be careful to follow package directions exactly and avoid applying the strips over your gum line, which may cause irritation.
Whitening pens Whitening pens are an easy-to-use and effective solution for people on the go. The whitening pen contains a bleaching gel that you brush onto your teeth in a thin layer, giving you a lot more control and precision over where the gel ends up. Therefore, it can be easier to avoid sensitive gum tissue or any potentially sensitive teeth. Plus, whitening pens can fit in a pocket, purse, or backpack, making them a good option for people who always want their whitening solution on hand.
Tooth whitening gels and trays Tooth whitening gels contain bleaching agents with a peroxide-based formula. To use these gels, you fill a mouth-shaped tray with the product and then place it over your teeth—being cautious to avoid contact between the gel and your gum tissue. This method for removing tooth stains is considered more effective than whitening toothpaste because the gel contains higher amounts of peroxide. Some tooth whitening kits also come with LED light devices to intensify the whitening effect on your teeth. Tooth whitening gels can be bought over-the-counter, but you can also ask your dentist if they offer services to create a custom tray that’s fitted to your teeth. Custom trays are thought to be more effective and safer since they fit your teeth exactly and better protect your sensitive gums.
Professional whitening services If you’re worried about tooth sensitivity or your stains aren’t budging with over-the-counter options, it may be time to talk to your dentist about professional in-office teeth whitening. A dentist’s office is more equipped to remove deep stains from your teeth, using stronger products and more advanced technology than you can use at home. Plus, you don’t have to worry about harming your gums or teeth with the help of a professional. However, whitening discolored teeth at the dentist can be more expensive than over-the-counter or at-home remedies. Talk to your regular dentist first, and then check with local dentistry schools and low-cost dental clinics to see if they offer well-reviewed whitening services.
Natural Remedies for Removing Tooth Stains
Brush and floss your teeth at least two times a day. Your first step should always be to regularly brush and floss your teeth, especially after consuming foods and drinks that may leave stains behind. Brush your teeth for two minutes at least two times a day, and floss between your teeth at least once a day. Brush gently in a circular motion to help protect your gums, and be sure to brush the inside, outside, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Many dentists advocate for using electric toothbrushes, as they’ve been shown in some studies to be more effective in removing surface stains and plaque. While there are several home remedies and DIY treatments that we’ll share to whiten your teeth, many of them have not been proven as effective by medical research. The best method is always to take good care of your teeth on a regular basis.
Use a homemade toothpaste with 1:2 parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Mix 1 tablespoon (17 g) baking soda with 2 tablespoons (30 mL) hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Use this paste in place of your normal toothpaste when brushing your teeth, then rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Alternatively, you can make a mouthwash with the same ratio of ingredients or by substituting hydrogen peroxide with water. A 2012 study found that whitening teeth with baking soda and peroxide was effective in getting rid of tooth stains. Additionally, a 2017 study deemed these treatments to be effective and safe for daily use.
Swish 1–2 tsp (4.9–9.9 mL) liquid coconut oil in your mouth for 10-30 minutes. Known as coconut oil pulling, this method is thought to remove plaque and bacteria from the mouth, whitening the teeth as a result. Look for high-quality, organic coconut oil and place 1–2 tsp (4.9–9.9 mL) in your mouth. Swish it around for 10-30 minutes, being careful not to let it touch the back of your throat or swallow it. After 10-30 minutes, spit the oil into a toilet or trash can. Rinse your mouth out with water and then drink a full glass of water before brushing your teeth as normal. While there’s no current research to prove the effects of coconut oil pulling on teeth, a 2015 study showed that oil pulling with sesame and sunflower oils is effective in reducing gingivitis.
Use a mouthwash with 2 tsp (9.9 mL) apple cider vinegar and 6 fl oz (180 mL) water. Mix 2 tsp (9.9 mL) apple cider vinegar and 6 fl oz (180 mL) water together, then swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds. Rinse your mouth out with water and brush your teeth as normal. A 2014 study showed that apple cider vinegar had a bleaching effect on cow’s teeth. However, apple cider vinegar may cause damage to the hardness and surface structure of the teeth, so avoid using it on a regular basis until research is completed on human teeth.
Rub lemon, orange, or banana peels onto your teeth for two minutes. Some people believe that rubbing citrus or banana peels onto your teeth will whiten them because they often contain the compound d-limonene or citric acid. To try this method, rub the fruit peels onto your teeth for about two minutes, then thoroughly rinse out your mouth and brush your teeth as usual. There is no scientific research to support the effectiveness of fruit peels in removing stains from teeth. A 2017 study had varying results in the use of orange peel as a teeth whitener. However, be cautious with this method as the fruit is acidic and may erode your enamel. If you attempt this method and notice your teeth becoming more sensitive, stop immediately.
Brush your teeth with activated charcoal. Buy a toothpaste that contains activated charcoal and use it as normal, or purchase a bottle of activated charcoal capsules. Open a capsule of activated charcoal and empty the contents onto your toothbrush, then gently brush your teeth for two minutes. Spit out the charcoal into a nearby sink and rinse your mouth thoroughly. If your teeth are sensitive, dab the activated charcoal onto your teeth and let it sit for two minutes without brushing. Rinse the charcoal out, and then brush your teeth. Alternatively, you can make an activated charcoal mouthwash by mixing the charcoal with a small amount of water. Swish the mouthwash solution for 2 minutes, then spit it out and rinse your mouth thoroughly. There is a lack of evidence to show that activated charcoal is effective for teeth whitening. A 2019 study found it to be effective but not as effective as other whitening toothpaste. Other research, however, warns against the use of activated charcoal as it can be abrasive on teeth and even lead to a loss of tooth structure, actually increasing the yellow look of your teeth.
Eat fruits and vegetables with a high water content. Chew on water-rich fruits and veggies at the end of a meal, such as cucumbers, melons, strawberries, celery, tomatoes, and spinach. Eating these hydrating foods can increase saliva production and help to wash away any harmful acids. While it’s almost never a bad idea to eat more fruits and veggies, there’s no scientific evidence that doing so will help remove stains from your teeth. Some studies have shown that certain fruit enzymes help with stain removal, but further research is needed to solidify these findings.
Different Types of Tooth Stains
Extrinsic Stains Extrinsic stains are stains that discolor your enamel and create a stain on the outer layer of your tooth. These stains usually stem from things you ingest or otherwise put into contact with your teeth—such as berries, turmeric, red wine, or nicotine. Over the years, your enamel may absorb the colors of some of those items and cause a tooth stain. How to Get Rid of Them: Extrinsic stains are the easiest type to remove since they’re only on the surface of the tooth. A home teeth-whitening system (like Jemz chewable lozenges or a tooth-whitening pen) can get rid of these stains.
Intrinsic Stains Intrinsic stains begin from inside the tooth and affect the dentin, or the soft inner layer of your tooth. These stains can result from health conditions, medications, tooth trauma, and a number of other causes. How to Get Rid of Them: Intrinsic staining is tougher to treat but not impossible. An at-home product with an active whitening ingredient (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide) may work, but a professional whitening treatment with a licensed dentist is more likely to be effective.
Age-Related Stains As you get older, your enamel is prone to thinning, and your dentin may turn a darker shade of yellow-brown. This staining is a natural part of the aging process and is nearly impossible to avoid, regardless of your oral hygiene or dental health. How to Get Rid of Them: Age-related staining is best addressed at the dentist’s office with professional whitening treatment, but at-home remedies may work as well.
Causes of Tooth Staining & Yellowing
Common causes of tooth stains include dark beverages, tartar, and decay. Different types of tooth stains are caused by different factors—e.g., extrinsic stains are typically caused by food and drink, while intrinsic stains may be caused by tooth decay or trauma. One of the most common reasons for tooth stains is tartar, which is a type of plaque that accumulates on your teeth and can be removed by brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings. Other top causes of tooth staining and yellowing include: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas Berries (especially blueberries) A diet high in sugars and simple carbohydrates Tobacco products Excessive fluoride consumption Certain medications and mouthwashes Tooth decay or mouth trauma Poor dental care and oral hygiene Chronic dry mouth Genetics Age
How to Prevent Tooth Staining
Prevent tooth stains by brushing your teeth regularly and minimizing contact with staining substances. The best thing you can do to keep your teeth as white as possible is to brush and floss your teeth every day to remove tartar, which is one of the major causes of tooth discoloration. On top of this daily habit, try the following tips to prevent stained or yellowed teeth: Rinse your mouth with water after drinking dark beverages like tea, coffee, wine, or soda. Drink dark beverages through a straw and only consume them at mealtimes so that your teeth are exposed for a shorter length of time. Add milk or cream to your tea and coffee to lighten the drinks and potentially neutralize their acids. Eat staining foods (like blueberries or chocolate) all at one time rather than snacking on them throughout the day. Rinse your teeth with water before brushing so that acids from food and drink are washed off and less likely to cause enamel erosion. Use a high-quality electric toothbrush to brush your teeth twice daily.
Is it bad to have stains on your teeth?
Tooth stains aren’t bad for your health, but they can affect your confidence. Unlike tooth decay, tooth stains cannot affect your physical health. However, many people feel self-conscious or insecure about the staining on their teeth, especially because having white teeth is associated with youth and conventional beauty standards. Stains on teeth are typically temporary and caused by a myriad of factors—plus, they’re hard to avoid completely as our teeth perform their daily function of helping us eat and drink. While there’s no problem with having stained teeth, if your teeth are healthy and well-taken care of, you may consider whitening them if you find the stains pose a daily confidence issue for you and your self-image.
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