Purple toothpaste and yellow teeth (2024)

Have you heard big claims about purple toothpaste on social media? Some people say that purple toothpaste can whiten your teeth. Does it really work, or is it just another trend that will fade away? Let’s investigate.

What’s purple toothpaste anyway?

Purple toothpaste isn’t a whitening toothpaste the same way others are. Traditional whitening toothpastes use added chemicals like hydrogen peroxide to bleach your teeth.

Purple toothpastes don’t always contain those chemicals. In fact, purple toothpaste doesn’t always work like a regular toothpaste with cleaning agents — some are just purple serums or pastes meant to be used after normal toothpaste. They contain FDA-approved synthetic colorants to give them a bluish-purple color.

What are the claims?

Some people believe that purple toothpaste can make your teeth appear whiter because of color theory. When colors that are opposite each other are combined, they should neutralize each other. On the color wheel, purple is opposite yellow, meaning that using purple toothpaste on yellow stains should make the stains less apparent.

The same theory is at work with purple shampoo, which people use to combat brassy or yellow tones in blonde and gray hair.

Does it work?

It does, but there are some caveats. Purple toothpaste may make your teeth appear brighter or whiter for a short time. It isn’t a long-term fix because the purple colorants will naturally come off your teeth as you eat and drink throughout the day. Typically, you can expect results to last anywhere from a few hours to a day. This means it’s more of a quick, temporary solution for yellowed teeth.

What if I want more permanent teeth whitening?

Permanent teeth whitening is only possible if stains are removed using abrasives or chemical treatments.

There are home treatments, like whitening strips, you can purchase in stores or online. These treatments sometimes require multiple uses and may not be suitable for people who have sensitive teeth.

You can also talk to your dentist about more professional treatments, which may be more effective for teeth with more stains. If you want to have in-office whitening treatments at your dentist, check your Explanation of Benefits to see if treatment is covered.

The verdict on purple toothpaste

Purple toothpaste won’t whiten your teeth, but it may be a good quick fix for brighter looking teeth. You could try using it for things like picture day at school, an event for work or a first date. Just make sure to try it in advance to make sure it actually works for you.

As always, talk to your dentist before you try a new oral health fad. Trendy products that promise miraculous results are rarely all they’re hyped up to be. Wellness trends come and go, and the same goes for oral health fads. Don’t let your oral health get caught up in whirlwind trends.

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Purple toothpaste and yellow teeth (2024)

FAQs

Does purple toothpaste work on yellow teeth? ›

Purple toothpaste is based on the principle of color theory, where the purple hue is supposed to neutralize yellow stains on teeth. While this might sound scientifically plausible, the reality is it's more of an optical illusion than an oral health solution. The effect is purely cosmetic and extremely temporary.

What toothpaste gets rid of yellow teeth? ›

The newest whitening toothpaste from Crest is probably the best bang for your buck as it can remove up to 95% of surface stains. This is probably the more popular of the whitening toothpastes since can be found at local pharmacies and drugstores as well as Costco.

Does Hismile work on really yellow teeth? ›

Not only does it work with the yellow staining, but it also doesn't have a bad taste to it, it's actually kind of sweet. And since I have sensitive gums, it didn't leave it burning like a lot of other toothpaste. If it is this well after only the first use, I can't even wait to see what it does after a week or two.

What color cancels out yellow teeth? ›

Colour correction all starts with the colour wheel, where purple and yellow are complementary colours opposite each other on the colour wheel. Applying purple onto your teeth neutralises yellow undertones by cancelling them, giving your teeth a perceptively brighter shade of white.

How do I get rid of yellow teeth ASAP? ›

Remedies for yellow teeth
  1. Brushing your teeth. Your first plan of action should be to brush your teeth more often and in the correct manner. ...
  2. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. ...
  3. Coconut oil pulling. ...
  4. Apple cider vinegar. ...
  5. Lemon, orange, or banana peels. ...
  6. Activated charcoal. ...
  7. Eating fruits and vegetables with a higher water content.

Does purple actually cancel out yellow? ›

Purple toothpaste doesn't actually whiten yellow teeth or reduce tooth stains. It only gives the illusion of white teeth using color theory. "Its whitening effect is mainly superficial, targeting the appearance of teeth rather than deeply cleaning or bleaching them," said Chen.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

Yellow teeth can be completely whitened with teeth whitening technologies at the dentist or at home. Depending on the status of your yellow teeth as well as your needs, the doctor will advise and prescribe the appropriate method.

What vitamin deficiency causes yellow teeth? ›

In adults, low vitamin D status can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Does vitamin D deficiency cause yellow teeth? Yes, vitamin D deficiency can show up as yellow teeth. Yellow or brown spots on teeth are a symptom of rickets, a condition caused by chronic low levels of vitamin D.

What naturally whitens yellow teeth? ›

For optimal whitening, a person can try brushing with a mix of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for 1–2 minutes twice a day for a week. They should only do this occasionally. Hydrogen peroxide may increase tooth sensitivity, so it is not suitable for long-term use or for people who already have sensitive teeth.

What are the negative effects of HiSmile? ›

The original HiSmile formula contained citric acid, sodium chlorite and sodium bicarbonate as the active ingredients. Citric acid can erode tooth surfaces and cause sensitivity, while sodium chlorite can be toxic in high amounts.

How to permanently whiten teeth? ›

One of the most effective ways to whiten teeth permanently is through professional teeth whitening procedures performed by a dentist. These treatments use potent bleaching agents that penetrate deep into the enamel, breaking down stains and discoloration.

Is v34 Colour corrector bad for your teeth? ›

Non-invasive brightening treatment

V34 is not a chemical whitening treatment and doesn't make any pertinent changes to your teeth, so it is safe to be used on dental work.

Can purple toothpaste whiten teeth? ›

Trendy purple toothpaste won't whiten your teeth, even if it gives the temporary illusion of a brighter smile. If you have stained teeth, talk to your dental health provider about how to address the discoloration with tried-and-true, ADA-approved dental care.

Can hydrogen peroxide fix yellow teeth? ›

Hydrogen peroxide is an inexpensive household product you probably have on hand right now. When used carefully, it can be an effective way to whiten your teeth. But if used incorrectly — in concentrations that are too high or if used too often — it can cause serious and sometimes expensive tooth damage.

What does purple do to yellow teeth? ›

Even though purple toothpastes tend to include ingredients that can brighten teeth, it's important to know that they can also create an illusion of whiter teeth through the principles of color theory, where the purple color neutralizes yellow or brown stains.

How can I cover up yellow teeth? ›

Try opting for lipsticks that have a slight blue hue to them. The faint appearance of blue can actually make the teeth appear whiter than they really are. Red colored lipstick is a very popular style and it also contains a blue tint, which will make your teeth look more attractive.

Will teeth whitening work on yellow teeth? ›

However, you do not need to worry too much about yellowing teeth, because yellow teeth can be completely whitened by modern dental methods and technologies.

Does charcoal toothpaste get rid of yellow teeth? ›

The cons of using charcoal toothpaste include the following: It's abrasive and may wear down tooth enamel, making teeth appear yellow. It does not remove stains below the enamel. Everyday use could cause tooth sensitivity.

How do dentist remove yellow teeth? ›

Bleaching process in the clinic: The first way a dentist can help you clean yellow teeth is by performing the bleaching process at the clinic. Before applying any whitening bleach, your dentist will put a protective layer of gel or a mouth guard inside your mouth. This bleach will help you get your pearly whites back.

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