WHAT CAUSES TEETH TO TURN YELLOW?

A bright, white smile is generally seen as a symbol of health and confidence.

However, yellowing teeth is a concern for many people, with a third of the UK population unhappy with the appearance of their teeth. This can have a big impact on self-esteem.

Several factors contribute to tooth discolouration, from lifestyle habits to the natural ageing process.

By recognising these common causes of yellowing teeth, you can take proactive measures to prevent and address discolouration, ultimately maintaining a vibrant, confident smile.

Common causes of yellow teeth

Dietary Habits

Food and drinks play a significant role in the colour of our teeth. Dark-coloured beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine are notorious for causing stains. These drinks contain chromogens, which are pigments that attach to the enamel, leading to discolouration over time.

Acidic foods and drinks can erode tooth enamel, increasing the likelihood of yellowing. As the enamel wears away, the underlying dentin, which is naturally more yellow, becomes more visible, leading to a discoloured appearance.

The simple habit of using a straw when drinking can help reduce the chances of this, as it will minimise contact between your drinks and teeth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow plaque, tartar, and food particles to build up on the teeth. When plaque isn’t removed regularly, it hardens into tartar. This is much more difficult to clean and often has a yellow or brown tint.

Daily brushing and flossing, along with routine dental check-ups, are essential for keeping your teeth clean and white.

Aging

As we age, the enamel on our teeth naturally wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. This process is part of natural aging and is often exacerbated by years of consuming staining foods and beverages.

While you can’t stop the aging process, you can slow it down by maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding habits that lead to enamel erosion.

Smoking

Tobacco is one of the leading causes of yellow teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes are absorbed by the tooth enamel, leading to deep stains that are difficult to remove.

Smokers often experience yellowing that goes beyond the surface, making it harder to tackle with regular brushing. Therefore, quitting smoking will not only benefit your health, but will improve the appearance of your teeth.

The sooner you stop smoking, the higher your chances of reversing some of the damage done by tobacco.

How to fix yellowing teeth

There typically isn’t an overnight fix for whitening teeth; prevention is easier than reversal. However, in most cases the yellow hue can be improved.

Maintain good oral hygiene

Unbrushed teeth will inevitably lead to a build-up of bacteria and plaque, so be sure to brush your teeth twice daily. A soft-bristled toothbrush is best, to avoid damaging the enamel.

Flossing daily is also important as this helps to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, in the spaces that your toothbrush can’t reach. It’s also a good idea to incorporate an antibacterial mouthwash into your routine to further kill bacteria and wash away lingering food particles.

Regular cleanings performed by your dentist can remove the plaque and tartar build-up that brushing alone can’t address.

If you use dental appliances, such as retainers, you can keep these hygienic by using a cleaning spray and disinfectant tablets.

Protect your enamel

Brushing your teeth after eating sugary foods, or those that are likely to stain, will limit its effect on your enamel.

If you’ve consumed acidic foods, you should avoid brushing teeth for at least an hour, as the acidity weakens your enamel. This means brushing your teeth immediately afterwards can damage your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth with water to wash away food particles.

Teeth Whitening

If you’re unhappy with the colour of your teeth, talk to your dentist about professional whitening treatments. They can provide safe and effective options to help you achieve whiter teeth.

While there are many cheap home whitening kits available, it’s important to avoid these as they can be extremely harmful for your teeth and gums. While they may seem cost-effective, they come with risks such as uneven whitening, gum irritation, and damage to the enamel.

Investing in professional teeth whitening, such as Boutique Whitening, is a safer and more effective way to achieve the dazzling white that you desire.

Ultimately, investing in your dental health and addressing yellowing teeth with the right strategies will not only enhance your smile but also contribute to your overall well-being!