How to Fix Nicotine Stained Teeth

Co-authored by Tu Anh Vu, DMD

Last Updated: January 5, 2024 Approved

Experts note that yellow or stained teeth are a common complaint of nicotine users.^{[1]
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American Dental Association
World's largest dental professional organization and advocate for proper oral health

Go to source} While nicotine can cause other effects, like oral health problems, stained teeth can be embarrassing and cause a lack of confidence. Studies show that there are several steps you can take to reduce the yellow discoloration of your teeth, including whitening and professional dental work.^{[2]
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American Dental Association
World's largest dental professional organization and advocate for proper oral health

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Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Whitening Your Teeth at Home

1
Use a whitening toothpaste. Head to the drugstore and look for a toothpaste that specifically advertises whitening properties. These toothpastes can lessen the appearance of surface stains, such as those caused by smoking. Often, they contain chemicals that break down the stains.^{[3]
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Mayo Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals

Go to source}
- Ask your dentist for his recommended brand. Be aware that certain toothpastes can heighten the sensitivity of your teeth.
In addition to toothpastes, there are other over-the-counter products that can help reduce the appearance of nicotine stains on your teeth. Purchase whitestrips, and follow the directions on the package. You can choose from those that dissolve in your mouth or strips that you remove after a specific period of time. Strips are an effective and inexpensive way to brighten your teeth.^{[4]
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3
Use natural ingredients. There are many items in your home — especially your kitchen —which are natural whitening agents. Lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent and can make your teeth appear shiny and clean. Mix some lemon juice with water, and rinse your mouth with this solution.
- You can also make a paste using baking powder and strawberries. Just mash two to three berries together with 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder. Use a toothbrush to cover your teeth with the paste. After five minutes, rinse your mouth with water. These ingredients will help to brighten the appearance of your yellow teeth.^{[5]
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- There are also certain foods to avoid. Too much coffee, cola, and red wine can increase the discoloration that occurs with nicotine use. Try to avoid them.
4
Rinse with hydrogen peroxide. Another common household product that can brighten your teeth is hydrogen peroxide. Dilute a small amount (less than an ounce) of hydrogen peroxide with water and rinse your mouth. After several seconds, spit it out, and thoroughly rinse with water. This solution is an easy way to lighten yellow stains.^{[6]
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- Another way to create a shiny look to your teeth can be achieved by holding mouthwash in your mouth and then start brushing your teeth, pushing the brush in past your closed lips. In short, you brush your teeth with the mouthwash. The final result can be surprising.
Nicotine stains are often more difficult to treat than discoloration caused by food or other factors like medication or discoloration following a root canal. Because nicotine stains are so stubborn, it can take longer to reduce their appearance. Be aware that it may take two to three months to see results. Don't give up if you can't see an immediate impact.^{[7]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Seeking Professional Help

For many people, going to the dentist can be an unpleasant experience. But it you do your research and find a dentist who makes you feel comfortable, you'll likely feel much more at ease. Ask your friends and relatives for recommendations. You can also read online reviews from previous patients. Make sure to choose a dentist who listens carefully and thoroughly explains all of your options.
Your dentist might recommend laser whitening to help eradicate the nicotine stains on your teeth.^{[8]
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[v161353_b01. 12 May 2020.} This process involves painting your teeth with a peroxide solution and exposing your teeth to very strong light. This is a painless procedure that takes anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour.^{[9]
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Try chemical whitening. With this option, your dentist will use a bleaching agent to whiten your teeth.^{[10]
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[v161353_b01. 12 May 2020.} Sometimes, you might be sent home with a mouth tray and a supply of bleaching gel. Your dentist will instruct you to wear the tray for a certain amount of time each day. Other times, she might do the entire bleaching procedure in the office. Either way, it is painless.^{[11]
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- Be aware of risks. One of the most common side effects is increased sensitivity in your teeth. Ask your dentist about this possibility.^{[12]
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  Cleveland Clinic
  Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals
  
  Go to source} In addition, in some cases, depending on the bite or the concentration of the whitening substance, tooth structure becomes weak and teeth may experience small cracks or even chip.
4
Consider veneers. Porcelain laminate veneers are paper thin "shells" made from porcelain that are used to create the appearance of bright, healthy teeth. The dentist will remove some of your tooth enamel, then apply a layer of adhesive, followed by the veneer. Veneers are considered one of the most effective ways to whiten and brighten your smile. Plus, they are stain-resistant. Ask your dentist if they are an option for you.^{[13]
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- There is also an option for "no-prep" veneers, which does not require the dentist to remove enamel before applying the veneer. This is not appropriate for everyone, however, so talk to your dentist to see if you are a candidate.
- There are also composite veneers, which are less expensive than porcelain veneers. They are made of composite resin, which is a tooth-colored filling material.
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Prepare a budget. Any trip to the dentist can be pricey. Even if you have dental insurance, many plans to not cover whitening, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Contact your insurance company to find out the details of your coverage. Then, contact your dentist to inquire about pricing for the procedure that interests you.
- Once you know how much money you need to spend to reduce the appearance of nicotine stains, start planning your budget. It is possible that your dentist accepts payment plans. If not, come up with some ways to pinch your pennies.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Understanding How Nicotine Affects Your Teeth

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Learn about discoloration. Nicotine can quickly cause yellowing of your teeth. This occurs whether you smoke cigarettes or use chewing tobacco. Nicotine and tar settle into the very small cracks in the enamel of your teeth, and cause discoloration.^{[14]
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- It has been shown that nicotine helps the process of plaque formation, which leads to a faster deposit of tartar and can cause bad breath.
In addition to discoloration, nicotine use can cause other physical problems for your teeth and gums. You may be prone to increased cavities, gum disease, and certain types of oral cancer. All of these ailments can decrease the healthy appearance of your teeth.^{[15]
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PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health

Go to source}
3
Practice good oral hygiene. One way to prevent the yellowing of teeth is to make sure that you are taking excellent care of your mouth. Good oral hygiene includes brushing your teeth twice a day. You should use a whitening toothpaste in combination with a soft-bristled tooth brush. Brush firmly but gently at least twice a day.^{[16]
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- Flossing is also important. You should make sure to use dental floss once a day. This can remove buildup of foreign material between your teeth.
Try to quit. The best way to put a stop to the yellowing of your teeth is to quit using nicotine.^{[17]
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[v161353_b01. 12 May 2020.} Quitting is a very difficult process, but there are many methods you can try. Consider using cessation aids, such as chewing gum or nicotine patches. There are also prescription medications to help with your addition. Ask your doctor for help in choosing a safe and effective method.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How can I get rid of years cigarette stains in one quick way?

Cristian Macau, DDS
Doctor of Dental Surgery
Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015.

Cristian Macau, DDS

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Expert Answer

A fast visit to your dentist's office and an air polishing session of just 10 minutes should be just the right choice. You can also try rubbing the surface of your teeth with a gauze you have wet with apple cider vinegar.

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Question

Does the nicotine in e-cigarettes still yellow/stain teeth?

Cristian Macau, DDS
Doctor of Dental Surgery
Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015.

Cristian Macau, DDS

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Expert Answer

It still does, but at a much lower rate. Vapors dilute the capacity of staining compared to a regular cigarette.

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Question

Can nicotine stains be removed from teeth?

Tu Anh Vu, DMD
Board Certified Dentist
Dr. Tu Anh Vu is a Board Certified Dentist and Owner of Tu's Dental, her private practice, in Brooklyn, New York. With over six years of clinical experience, Dr. Vu helps adults and kids of all ages get over their anxiety with dental phobia. Dr. Vu has conducted research related to finding the cure for Kaposi Sarcoma cancer and has presented her research at the Hinman Meeting in Memphis. She received her undergraduate degree from Bryn Mawr College and a DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.

Tu Anh Vu, DMD

Board Certified Dentist

Expert Answer

To remove nicotine stains, you will likely have to see a dental professional. Nicotine stains are especially stubborn, so regular whitening methods might not work. It''s also really important to just quit smoking. Not only is it better for your health, but it's also better for your teeth.

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