Nicotine can change the color of your teeth over time without you even realizing it. Fortunately, there are several simple at-home remedies you can try to get your pearly whites back. These remedies include baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and whitening gels, as well as regular brushing and using mouthwash.
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Removing nicotine stains from your teeth using baking soda
Your teeth play a very important role in your appearance, which is why it’s vital to maintain clean and good-looking teeth. While baking soda is usually an essential ingredient for baking your favorite pastries, it can also be used it as an agent to whiten your teeth.
Follow these steps to get the best results and get your pearly whites back.
- Make a baking soda paste using two tablespoons of baking soda and six drops of hydrogen peroxide. Make sure that you mix it well to achieve a toothpaste-like texture.
- Pay extra attention to the paste. Don’t make it too abrasive because it can damage your teeth. It would also be best to consult your dentist to know if you’re allergic to baking soda or hydrogen peroxide. If you aren’t, you can use the paste and apply it to your teeth.
- Gently rub the paste on your enamel (the outer covering of your teeth) for 30 seconds.
- Gargle clean water to wash away the nicotine stains.
For the best results, it’s best to do this method twice a month. This can help you maintain your white and superb teeth with ease.
Avoid nicotine stains by regularly brushing your teeth and using mouthwash
Nicotine stains can leave your teeth looking less than ideal, and not regularly brushing your teeth can make it worse. That’s because nicotine lowers the calcium content of your teeth, making it appear yellow. But you can prevent nicotine buildup by regularly brushing your teeth and using mouthwash.
Here are the steps to remove nicotine stains by brushing your teeth and using mouthwash.
- Every time you smoke, always brush your teeth. Doing this prevents nicotine stains from building up on your teeth. It’s best to brush for two minutes each time for the best results.
- After brushing your teeth, use your preferred mouthwash and start gargling it.
- While gargling your mouthwash, hold it in your mouth, and start brushing again. Doing this can help you reach the hidden areas of your mouth that may have nicotine stains.
- After brushing your teeth for another two minutes, gargle plain water.
Doing this method twice a day can help you remove nicotine stains faster, leaving you feeling cleaner and refreshed.
Using hydrogen peroxide can eliminate nicotine stains from your teeth
We often use hydrogen peroxide to treat wounds and prevent infection. Surprisingly, you can also use it as a mouth rinse. It helps you to remove nicotine stains from your mouth, relieves minor irritation, and eliminates mucus.
This solution is one of the simplest ways to lighten the nicotine stains. Simply follow these steps to get back your stunning smile:
- Make a solution out of a cup of water and one-fourth cup of hydrogen peroxide. Mix it well.
- Use this solution to rinse your mouth for 30 seconds.
- After 30 seconds, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
Whitening gels can also remove nicotine stains from your teeth
Commercial whitening gels can help you keep your teeth white, clean, and free from nicotine stains. You can find these products in your local grocery stores, pharmacies, or online.
Follow these steps to remove the nicotine stains from your teeth effectively.
- Apply the whitening gel to your teeth. Make sure that you cover all the parts that have stains and let it stay on your teeth overnight.
- The next day, brush your teeth but don’t use any toothpaste. That’s because mixing fluoride (a common ingredient in toothpaste) can reduce the effectiveness of the whitening gel.
- Rinse your mouth with the mouthwash of your choice to remove the gel residue.
Prevention is easier than stain removal
Remember, preventing nicotine stains is much easier than getting rid of them once they’re there. The easiest way to prevent nicotine stains from forming is by stopping smoking. If this isn’t possible for you, good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist will help.
Be aware that, in addition to your teeth, nicotine can stain other things like your hands, facial hair, and even walls. Fortunately, we have tips for getting rid of all of these stains.
Common questions about nicotine stains
Is nicotine harmful?
Yes, nicotine not only ruins the appearance of your teeth, but it can also damage your gums. Once you expose yourself to smoking, or chewing tobacco, it can also target your immune system and build gum infection. If you compare regular smokers to non-smokers, they’re usually more vulnerable to diseases.
It would be best if you limit your consumption of nicotine. It’s not just for your health, but for your loved ones too.
Can teeth cleanings remove the nicotine stains?
Yes. Having professional teeth cleanings from your dentist is a great way to eliminate nicotine stains. However, it’s best to ask your dentist first if you’re in the right condition to proceed with the treatment.
These cleanings can also remove tartar and plaque by penetrating your teeth’s enamel, where most of these unsightly stains are located. A professional teeth cleaning will provide you with a fresher and cleaner look.
Is bleaching my teeth a good idea?
Before you try to bleach your teeth to remove nicotine stains, it would be best to consult with your dentist. Bleach’s properties can become dangerous if mishandled and can trigger the sensitivity of your teeth, leaving you with worse issues to deal with. It can be especially dangerous if it touches your gums as it can burn tissues. It’s best to avoid this method overall.
Video: Does nicotine stain your teeth
The bottom line
If you’re an avid smoker or regularly consume products that contain nicotine, you need to pay attention to your oral hygiene. Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential, especially if you want to keep your teeth stain-free and perfect.
However, if you are dealing with stubborn nicotine stains, you don’t have to worry about it anymore. You can address the problem using do-it-yourself treatments, like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, whitening gels, and regular brushing with mouthwash. If you’re consistently practicing oral hygiene, your teeth will brighten and whiten in no time, giving you back your stunning smile.
