Stains on the teeth may be internal or external. Dark-colored drinks like coffee, tea or wine contain color pigments. These colors can get into the cracks and ridges of the teeth and stain your teeth. The enamel on the outer surface of your teeth gets stained by the colors.
Coffee stains being external, can generally be removed without much effort. It is usually possible to remove the stains using simple methods and materials that you can prepare at home or buy from the store.
However, it is always advisable to ask your dentist first. You may need to check out the condition and health of your teeth and gums before applying any cleaning or whitening agents. Also, you may be allergic to some materials or their constituents.
Remember, while simple remedies may work, cleaning or whitening agents may not correct all types of discoloration. It is always easier and safer to get a cleaning job done at your dentist’s. It may involve scraping and polishing the surface of your teeth. Your dentist may also consider bleaching, which will give you whiter and brighter teeth.
At home, you could try using baking soda or hydrogen peroxide under proper guidance. Coconut oil pulling has been found to be an effective and healthy method to clean, whiten and maintain your teeth in a healthy condition. Other alternatives include apple cider vinegar and mashed strawberries.
If you use vinegar, follow with brushing your teeth with ordinary toothpaste to remove excess acid. Unlike citrus fruits, strawberries contain malic acid. Brush your teeth with mashed strawberries, and the malic acid should do the trick! Try activated charcoal. It works well to clean anything under the sun. It’s also available in ready to use package for dental cleaning.
You could buy off the shelf teeth whitening materials or kits and carefully follow the instructions that come with them. These remedies are best for use between visits to the dentist, after you have informed your dentist. Remember, these kits are meant for natural teeth: do NOT use them if you have any artificial teeth, dentures or other fixtures on.
Some toothpastes contain peroxides of carbamide of Hydrogen, chemicals generally used by dentists. They can be used for effective cleaning and removing stains. In all cases, if you feel any pain or discomfort, stop using the material and inform your dentist promptly.