I Keep Brushing My Teeth But It's Still Yellow
Yellow teeth can be frustrating, especially when you are doing everything right. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash should be enough to maintain a bright and healthy smile. However, sometimes yellow teeth can occur even when you follow all the rules.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
There are several reasons why your teeth may appear yellow:
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to yellow teeth due to genetics.
- Food and drink: Consuming foods and drinks that are high in acid or pigments, such as coffee, tea, soda, and red wine, can stain your teeth over time.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can cause yellowing of the teeth.
- Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause yellowing of the teeth.
- Age: As you age, the enamel on your teeth wears down, revealing the yellow dentin underneath.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions or medications can cause yellowing of the teeth.
What Can You Do About Yellow Teeth?
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your yellow teeth, there are several things you can do:
- Whitening toothpaste: Using a whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile.
- At-home whitening kits: You can purchase at-home whitening kits that use trays and gels to whiten your teeth.
- In-office whitening: Your dentist can perform a professional whitening treatment in their office.
- Dental bonding: Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth to cover up stains.
- Veneers: Veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth to improve the appearance of your smile.
Preventing Yellow Teeth
The best way to prevent yellow teeth is to practice good oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Avoid consuming foods and drinks that are high in acid or pigments.
- Quit smoking or using other tobacco products.
The Bottom Line
If you are struggling with yellow teeth, don't give up hope. There are plenty of options available to help brighten your smile. Practice good oral hygiene, avoid staining foods and drinks, and talk to your dentist about your options for whitening or cosmetic treatments. With a little effort, you can have a healthy, bright, and beautiful smile.
