Why Are My Teeth Yellow When I Brush Them Every Day?
You diligently brush your teeth daily, aiming for that bright, confident smile you dream of. Yet, despite your best efforts, the mirror reflects a different reality—yellowing teeth that seem to defy your routine. It's a common frustration that leaves many feeling puzzled and disheartened.
While poor brushing can leave plaque and surface stains, even keeping up with your oral hygiene can leave you open to discolouration from:
Staining from certain foods and beverages
Natural aging
A genetic predisposition
But never fear! In-office and at-home whitening methods can bring the sparkle back to your smile. Let’s explore them together.
Why Teeth Turn Yellow
It's easy to think that brushing daily should naturally keep your teeth white. However, several factors contribute to tooth discolouration that brushing alone can't always combat, including:
Diet: Foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and even certain fruits can stain your teeth over time. These items contain chemicals that produce pigment and cling to the enamel of your teeth, causing discolouration. In some cases, your teeth could turn brown or even purple!
Aging: Just like the rest of our body, our teeth change as we age. The outer layer of enamel wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. Unfortunately, this natural process is hard to avoid but can be managed with the right care.
Lifestyle habits: Smoking and other tobacco use are notorious for causing severe staining. The nicotine and tar in tobacco settle into your tooth enamel’s tiny pores, creating yellow or brown stains. Quitting smoking can significantly impact your teeth' whiteness and overall health.
The Role of Oral Hygiene in White Teeth
Even though there are other reasons your teeth could turn yellow, it’s still vital to brush your teeth every day! Maintaining good oral hygiene is your first line of defence against yellow teeth. But are you doing it right?
Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps bolster your enamel strength, and strong enamel is less likely to wear down and reveal the yellow dentin below. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and hold it at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Brush gently in circular motions for at least 2 minutes.
While you’re brushing, don’t forget to floss! Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under your gumline, areas your toothbrush can't reach. If left untreated, these areas can become breeding grounds for bacteria, leading to discolouration and other dental issues.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening methods generally fall into 2 categories: at-home and professional dental treatments.
Many people consider at-home treatments more convenient, as these products can be purchased over the counter. Whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste are widely available, easy to use, and safe when used correctly. Some people swear by natural whitening methods like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
While these may be effective, they should be used cautiously to avoid damaging your enamel. Always follow the manufacturer's or dentist's instructions to avoid damaging your teeth and gums.
However, even the most effective over-the-counter method is typically best used to combat mild staining. When brushing and home care aren't enough, professional treatments can offer a solution.
The Benefits of Professional Whitening
Professional whitening treatments performed by your dentist are typically the most effective way to achieve a brighter smile. Most whitening products rely on “bleaching” the teeth. The stronger the bleach, the deeper it can penetrate the stain. A dentist can use stronger bleaching agents to remove deeper stains—sometimes with noticeable results in as little as one visit.
Your dentist can also make you a bleaching tray custom to your teeth and a professional-grade whitening gel. These kits are generally more effective than over-the-counter options and allow you to whiten your teeth conveniently.
Before starting any whitening treatment, it's essential to consult with your dentist. We can help determine the cause of your discolouration and recommend the most effective and safest options for you.
Lifestyle Changes for a Brighter Smile
Once your chosen whitening method has done its work to give you a whiter smile, the next step is keeping it that way. Here are some simple lifestyle changes that can significantly impact the whiteness of your teeth and overall oral health:
Quit smoking: If you're a smoker, quitting can dramatically improve the colour of your teeth and your overall health. Tobacco stains are some of the hardest to remove, so preventing them from forming in the first place is your best bet.
Focus on healthy living: Good general health contributes to good oral health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper hydration can all help keep your teeth looking their best.
Avoid staining foods: Coffee, tea, red wine, and acidic foods are some of the biggest culprits for yellow teeth. Even healthy foods like berries and beets can stain your teeth.
Rinse after eating: You don't have to give up your favourite foods and drinks entirely. Instead, try to rinse your mouth with water after consuming them. Drinking through a straw can also minimize contact with your teeth.
Regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist can catch issues before they become significant problems. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you can't reach with regular brushing and flossing.
Shine Bright with Shine Dental
Yellow teeth can be frustrating, but understanding the causes and treatments can help you achieve the bright smile you desire. From improving your oral hygiene to considering professional treatments, you can take steps to combat tooth discolouration.
For those ready to make the leap toward a brighter smile, consider enrolling in Shine Dental’s Shine Forever Whitening Program. You’ll receive a custom bleaching tray to help maximize your whitening potential and a touch-up kit at your preventative visit every 6 months.
Contact us to learn more and to book your next appointment. Don't wait—the smile of your dreams could be a phone call away!