Cigarettes and other tobacco products contain nicotine, a toxic substance that can affect our health. Even more, it can increase the risk of having a heart attack.
Studies have shown that nicotine doesn’t only affect our lungs, but also our teeth. So using tobacco products, which are loaded with nicotine can increase the likelihood of having stained teeth.
Well, the good news is that you can remove nicotine stains from your teeth. This article sheds light on some of the best ways to make your teeth white again if you have mild or severe nicotine stains on your teeth.
Understanding How Nicotine Stains the Teeth
Your teeth are slowly going to have a yellowish appearance as soon as you start smoking or using nicotine products. The reason for this is linked to the nature of the teeth.
Just like our skin, our teeth contain pores (tiny holes) that can absorb stains. Nicotine is naturally colorless, but it becomes yellow when it combines with oxygen.
Using tobacco products for a long can make the teeth have a dark brown look.
Note that continuous exposure to nicotine can weaken your immune system. A survey by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) found it is difficult for smokers to fight off gum disease.
Things to consider when choosing a teeth whitening option
There are several methods to remove nicotine stains from the teeth. To narrow down the best one for you, consider the factors below.
The severity of the Nicotine stain
If you haven’t been using tobacco products for long and your teeth are slightly brown, you should take a mild approach. This could mean using natural whiteners, a home teeth whitening kit, and a good toothbrush.
Chronic users of tobacco whose teeth are dark brown should opt for a more drastic approach like opting for a teeth whitening procedure from a reputable dentist.
Your budget
If you’re on a tight budget but still want to whiten your teeth, you should opt for a less expensive teeth whitening method. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are somewhat affordable.
Duration and effectiveness of the treatment
Budget-friendly teeth whitening options usually take a while to work. On the flip side, expensive stain removal methods work very fast. Even more, they last for a longer time.
3 main ways to eliminate nicotine stains from your teeth
Natural remedies
As mentioned above, it is best to use natural teeth whiteners if you have mild nicotine stains. Below are some natural teeth-whitening recipes that work wonders.
Strawberries and Baking soda mixture
Strawberries are rich in ascorbic and malic acid. Research suggests that both acids are effective in removing stains from the teeth.
How to use
- Squash 1 strawberry
- Add a teaspoon of baking soda to it
- Mix thoroughly
- Apply the mixture to your teeth
- Rinse it off after a couple of minutes
- Brush your teeth as you normally do
Orange peels
Orange peels contain citric acid which can whiten the teeth.
Carefully rub orange peels on your teeth for a minute or two. Rinse your teeth thoroughly and brush your teeth with good toothpaste afterward.
Guava leaves
Guava leaves contain compounds that can help remove nicotine stains from the teeth. Here is how to use it.
- Crush 2-3 leaves of guava
- Carefully apply the crushed leaves to your teeth
- Wait for a few minutes and rinse your mouth
- Brush your teeth afterwards
Home teeth whitening kit
If you visit the oral care aisle in your local mall, you will find an array of products that can whiten your teeth. Teeth whitening rinses, stripes, and toothpaste can effectively remove mild nicotine stains.
Be sure to consult your dentist before using any over-the-counter teeth whitening products.
Professional teeth whitening procedure
This method is best for removing tough nicotine stains. The procedure is done by a dentist. The procedure takes between 30 to 45 minutes. You will see a drastic improvement in your teeth coloration after the session.
Final note
Following the tips discussed in this article will help you have white and healthy teeth again. If you want to keep your teeth, lungs, and other parts of your body healthy, you should stop using tobacco products for good.