I Brush My Teeth Everyday But There Still Yellow
Do you brush your teeth every day but still find that they look yellow? You're not alone. Many people struggle with yellow teeth despite their best efforts to maintain good oral hygiene. In this article, we'll explore the various reasons why your teeth may be yellow and what you can do to improve their appearance.
Reasons for Yellow Teeth
There are several reasons why your teeth may be yellow, including:
- Staining from food and drink
- Poor oral hygiene
- Genetics
- Aging
- Medications
Staining from Food and Drink
One of the most common causes of yellow teeth is staining from food and drink. Coffee, tea, red wine, and other strongly colored foods and drinks can leave stains on your teeth over time. Smoking is also a major cause of yellow teeth.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you don't brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth, leading to yellowing and discoloration. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to gum disease, which can cause your gums to recede and expose more of the yellowish dentin underneath your tooth enamel.
Genetics
Some people are simply more prone to yellow teeth due to their genetics. If your parents or grandparents have yellow teeth, you may be more likely to as well.
Aging
As you age, your tooth enamel naturally wears down, exposing more of the yellowish dentin underneath. Additionally, the outer layer of your teeth (the enamel) can become thinner and more translucent, making your teeth appear more yellow.
Medications
Some medications can also cause yellow teeth as a side effect. For example, certain antibiotics (such as tetracycline) can cause yellowing of the teeth in children whose teeth are still developing. Other medications, such as antihistamines and blood pressure medications, can also cause yellowing.
What You Can Do About Yellow Teeth
If you're unhappy with the appearance of your yellow teeth, there are several things you can do to improve their appearance:
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Avoid foods and drinks that stain your teeth
- Quit smoking
- Use whitening toothpaste
- Try at-home whitening kits
- Get professional teeth whitening from a dentist
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The first step to reducing yellow teeth is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against cavities.
Avoid Foods and Drinks that Stain Your Teeth
If you're a coffee or red wine drinker, consider cutting back or switching to lighter-colored beverages to reduce staining. Avoid other strongly colored foods and drinks (such as berries, soy sauce, and tomato sauce) as well.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke, consider quitting to improve the appearance of your teeth (and your overall health). Smoking is a major cause of yellowing and discoloration, and quitting can help prevent further damage.
Use Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile. Look for a toothpaste that contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are effective whitening agents. Be aware, however, that whitening toothpaste can cause tooth sensitivity in some people.
Try At-Home Whitening Kits
At-home whitening kits (such as whitening strips or trays) can provide more dramatic results than whitening toothpaste. These kits contain a stronger whitening agent (such as hydrogen peroxide) and are designed to be used over a period of several weeks. However, they can also cause tooth sensitivity and should be used with caution.
Get Professional Teeth Whitening from a Dentist
If you want the most dramatic results, consider getting professional teeth whitening from a dentist. This involves applying a strong whitening agent (such as hydrogen peroxide) to your teeth in a controlled setting. Professional teeth whitening can be expensive, but it's usually the most effective option.
Conclusion
Yellow teeth can be frustrating and embarrassing, but there are many things you can do to improve their appearance.