Dr. Kami Hoss: How to Get Rid of Yellow Teeth

A smile is often the first thing people notice about you, so it's important to keep your pearly whites looking their best. Unfortunately, there are several reasons why your teeth may appear yellow, such as coffee or tea stains, smoking, or natural aging. Various strategies may reverse it. Dr. Kami Hoss' tips range from avoiding some foods to occasional brushing with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.

Make dietary changes.

Eliminating foods that tend to mark the teeth can prevent staining. Dr. Kami Hoss adds that foods and beverages that contain tannins, such as tea and wine, can stain the teeth. Dark sodas, juices, and coffee can also stain them.

Dentists usually recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating. Brushing too soon can cause permanent damage.

Try oil pulling.

Oil pulling is the term used for washing the mouth with oil to remove debris, dirt, and bacteria. Dr. Kami Hoss points out that it does not replace daily brushing or flossing, but research suggests that occasionally washing the mouth with certain oils may whiten the teeth.

The American Dental Association (ADA) considers oil pulling to be unconventional. According to the ADA, there aren't enough scientific studies to show that oil pulling whitens teeth, reduces cavities, or improves oral health and well-being.

However, if you want to try this method, rinse your mouth with oil for 20 minutes after brushing your teeth, then spit it out.

According to Dr. Kami Hoss, oils that can be used for oil pulling include:

• coconut oil
• sunflower oil
• sesame oil

Brush with baking soda.

Dr. Kami Hoss notes that baking soda can be used to polish away stains on the surface of your teeth. Many people worry that baking soda may grind away enamel, but research has found it to be one of the safest ways to remove stains.

Baking soda can also help fight bacteria. It may prevent tooth decay and plaque buildup.

Super dentist Dr. Kami Hoss leads one of San Diego, California's largest pediatric dental practices. For more insightful articles on oral health practices, follow this link.