How to Whiten Cigarette-Stained Teeth

Nicotine and tar found in cigarettes stains surfaces with which it comes in contact. Just as cigarette smoke stains walls and furniture surfaces, it also stains the teeth. Over time, the stains build until your teeth are no longer their natural shade, but an unsightly yellow or brown instead. Surface stains on the teeth can be treated by using teeth-whitening products to remove the stains and leave you with a healthier-looking, whiter and brighter smile.

Things You'll Need

• Commercial bleaching strips
• Toothbrush
• Whitening toothpaste

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Instructions

• 1

  Purchase commercial bleaching strips that contain peroxide for whitening teeth. Read the directions on the package completely to ensure proper use and reduce any associated irritation, such as sensitive gums. Most commercial whitening strips instruct you to use the strips once or twice per day for one to two weeks to achieve full whitening effects.

• 2

  Most teeth whitening strips cover only the front teeth that are visible when you smile.

  Cover your front upper and lower teeth with the whitening strips. Fold the strips over the teeth and smooth them over your teeth to secure them into place. Avoid drinking or eating anything while you use the whitening strips and try avoid activities that may dislodge the strips, such as excessive talking.

• 3

  Remove the whitening strips after the allotted time. Brush your teeth with water only to rinse off any peroxide-based gel left from the whitening strips.

• 4

  Whitening toothpaste helps maintain your bright smile.

  Wait for at least 30 minutes after using the bleaching strips, then brush your teeth with a whitening toothpaste. Use the whitening toothpaste regularly, in place of your normal toothpaste.