3. Teeth Whitening Treatments and Products
If you want to know how to whiten yellow teeth, the most effective option is an in-office whitening treatment with your dentist. In-office whitening treatments have become very popular because you can see results in a single visit or a few visits. The effects last longer than any product you find on the shelves.
Your dentist may recommend an at-home whitening kit that includes a custom tray and whitening gel. The instructions may vary, but patients often wear one of these trays for a set time in the evenings over one or two weeks. Ensure you follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to maintain whitening results!
Whitening treatments with your dentist are typically more expensive than whitening products you can buy at the store. Still, there are several options you can try. Whitening strips, whitening mouthwashes, whitening toothpaste, and whitening pens have become widely available over-the-counter. These products have a lower concentration of the whitening compounds used by the dentist, so they tend not to be as effective. Still, they may achieve some whitening of the teeth.
4. Enamel Protection
Your smile may not be as bright as you want because of weak enamel. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth enamel is a hard substance. It cannot repair itself once it breaks down. Once oral disease affects the enamel, you can't restore it, and weak enamel can be more susceptible to decay and cavities. That's where enamel protection comes in handy. Fluoride found in most toothpaste can help strengthen tooth enamel against the wear and tear associated with acidic foods and beverages, meaning fewer stains on weak enamel.
5. Eat Calcium-Rich Foods
According to the ADA, eating foods high in calcium helps strengthen enamel. Healthy enamel means that the layer of dentin underneath doesn't show, causing your teeth to appear whiter in color. Dairy products and non-dairy calcium-rich foods provide your teeth with the minerals they need to keep enamel healthy.
When oral hygiene itself doesn't improve your teeth's appearance, it might be time to consider these other options. Talk to your dental professional about their recommendations for removing surface stains and maintaining a bright smile.