Tips

6 Reasons Why Your Teeth Are Turning Yellow

There are numerous ways to whiten teeth and achieve a brighter smile. However, unbeknownst to many, our daily habits can inadvertently cause tooth discoloration, leaving us with a dull and yellow smile.

Administrator

9 July, 2024

137

Say No to Carbonated Drinks

Kicking the soda and fizzy drink habit is a wise choice, and your teeth will silently thank you. While carbonic acid in carbonated drinks may not severely damage tooth enamel, the addition of flavor additives can alter the acid levels, increasing the potential for enamel corrosion.

Frequent soy sauce use can lead to tooth discoloration.

Excessive Soy Sauce Consumption

There’s no denying that soy sauce enhances the flavor of sushi, but over time, it can cause tooth discoloration. Similar to other colored foods, soy sauce stains teeth and reduces the effectiveness of teeth whitening treatments.

Hot Beverage Lovers, Beware

There’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee to wake up your body in the morning. However, daily consumption can accelerate tooth discoloration. Moreover, the habit of drinking hot beverages to stay warm during cold days can increase tiny cracks in the enamel, making your teeth more sensitive.

Remember, coffee, tea, and pigment-rich beverages can discolor teeth, especially when consumed hot.

Carbonated drinks and coffee can stain your teeth.

Using the Wrong Mouthwash

Mouthwash keeps your breath fresh for longer, but it can also dull your smile if you don’t pay attention to the ingredients. For instance, mouthwashes targeting gum issues often contain chlorhexidine gluconate, which can cause tooth stains that are challenging to remove without professional dental assistance.

Brushing Too Hard

Brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining a bright smile, but overdoing oral hygiene can be counterproductive. Brushing too hard for several days can wear down tooth enamel, making your teeth more sensitive and prone to cavities.

Drinking enough water daily is beneficial for your overall health and helps keep your teeth pearly white.

Not Drinking Enough Water

Drinking ample water is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and your smile. Water helps rinse away residual stain-causing agents and keeps your teeth whiter for longer.

Minh Hằng (Theo Brightside)

Frequently asked questions

There can be several reasons for teeth discoloration, including genetics, aging, certain foods and drinks (such as coffee, tea, and red wine), smoking, and poor oral hygiene. Built-up plaque can also cause teeth to appear yellow.

To prevent teeth discoloration, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Limit consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks, and if you smoke, consider quitting as it can have a significant impact on the color of your teeth.

There are several natural remedies that can help brighten your smile. Brushing with baking soda once a week can help remove surface stains. Oil pulling with coconut oil is believed to reduce plaque and bacteria, contributing to whiter teeth. Eating crunchy, raw fruits and vegetables can also help naturally scrub your teeth and promote saliva production, which helps maintain a healthy pH balance in the mouth.

Yes, it is important to be cautious when using teeth whitening products as overuse or misuse can lead to enamel damage and tooth sensitivity. Always follow the instructions provided by your dentist or on over-the-counter products. It is recommended to undergo teeth whitening under professional supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.

The frequency of teeth whitening depends on the method used and your teeth’s sensitivity. For professional in-office whitening, it is generally safe to undergo the procedure every 6-12 months. For at-home whitening kits, follow the recommended schedule provided by your dentist or the product instructions. Over-whitening can lead to tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, so it is important to space out treatments appropriately.

If you have sensitive teeth, there are alternative treatments to consider. Your dentist may recommend custom-fitted whitening trays with a desensitizing gel or in-office whitening with a lower concentration of bleaching agent. Over-the-counter options like whitening toothpastes or mouthwashes can also help gradually improve the appearance of your teeth while being gentler on sensitive teeth.