How to Make Tooth Paint

Some of the funniest Halloween costumes feature stained or blacked-out teeth. There are different ways to accomplish this look, including black tooth paint and teeth stain makeup. It is easy to make a DIY tooth paint (or a DIY missing tooth). This can really be a great final touch to your costume. Of course, you don't want to do anything to damage your teeth, so it is wise to learn how to do it the right way.

Black tooth enamel is a good option because it comes out nice and dark and can last for several hours. This liquid paint-on tooth color is safe to use. You can buy black tooth enamel online, at party stores or in party store sections in other retail outlets. Black tooth wax is also effective. Both of these work better than food coloring, which is not as dark and does not last as long. Things like dark berries, pasta sauce and balsamic vinegar will stain teeth, so stay away from those ingredients if you choose to make your own.

Some companies make professional-grade tooth stain makeup. If this interests you, you can find many options online. However, do not use the enamels, paints or waxes on veneers. If you have braces or have just had your teeth whitened, you should not use professional-grade tooth stain makeup either.

Many dentists and orthodontists warn that costume tooth paint and wax can ruin veneers or get stuck in braces. Always use nontoxic products that are specifically designed for use as costume tooth paint.

To make DIY fake yellow teeth (and other colors), buy a small container of colored food dye – yellow, green and brown are very popular – and a tube of clear lip gloss. Then, add in a few drops, mix it up with the applicator and paint it onto your teeth and lips. This will have to be reapplied, however. You can also combine food dye with a bit of baking soda, swish it around in your mouth and spit it out to make an awesome all-over Halloween mouth dye.

Another option is to mix the food coloring with some white toothpaste. Use a small paintbrush to paint it onto your teeth and keep your mouth open for a full five minutes to allow it to dry. With these methods, you can start with a few drops of the coloring and add more until you have the desired effect. Remember that the food coloring will fade from your teeth and will not last as long as you may want it to last. You can bring extra with you or stick with tooth paint.

When using tooth paint or food coloring, be sure to completely dry your teeth first. Put a small piece of absorbent cloth inside your upper or lower lip to keep the saliva away. Then, pull your lips as far away as possible from your teeth and let them dry as long as possible. You may need a second coat if the first one isn't dark enough. Avoid eating and drinking for as long as you can. This may not be easy if you are at a Halloween party, though!