If you are like most people, you wouldn’t mind if your teeth were just a shade or two whiter. However, before getting your teeth professionally whitened, there are a few safe tips and tricks you can try at home first. If this sounds like something that may interest you, here are some of the questions you may have:
Why do teeth turn yellow?
The two primary reasons for tooth yellowing are stains and thinning enamel. If you are someone who drinks coffee, soda, or smokes cigarettes, you may have noticed an increasingly deeper yellowing of your teeth as the months and years pass by. On the other hand, enamel thinning can also cause teeth yellowing. Gum disease, acidic foods, and aging may all contribute to the thinning of enamel and therefore the yellowing of your teeth.
How can I make my yellow teeth white at home?
First, you can start by changing your diet. You will not need a massive overhaul. However, there are several small changes you can make that may slow down the progression of yellow teeth. Drinking less tea, coffee, dark sodas, and wine, for example, may help considerably. You should also do your best to brush after every meal to reduce staining. Though you do not need us to tell you smoking is bad, by quitting you drastically improve your oral health, and of course, your physical condition overall. Certain fruits, such as papayas, are known to have natural whitening agents within them as well, so if you see them in the grocery store, do not hesitate to buy some!
Of course, the best way to keep your teeth white is by giving them the year-round attention they need. This means brushing at least twice a day, regularly flossing to remove plaque, and ensuring that you are using fluoride toothpaste.
Is hydrogen peroxide bad for your teeth?
In short, the answer is no. Hydrogen peroxide passes through your tooth enamel easily, allowing it to effectively whiten your teeth a considerable amount. What’s more, the ADA states that hydrogen peroxide does not harm or affect the enamel part of your tooth, making it a safe whitening agent. To use hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth, you should mix equal amounts of hydrogen peroxide with water and swish the mixture around in your mouth for 30-60 seconds. If you notice any stinging, spit it out and ensure you do not swallow the mixture.
For the quickest, most efficient whitening possible, please do not hesitate to contact our reasonable, approachable team.
Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is a compassionate, gentle, and professional state-of-the-art dental practice serving Basking Ridge, Morris & Somerset County. Our office is always ready to greet our patients with a smile, take the time to answer any questions, and provide the quality dental services our patients expect. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
