Everyone wants a bright and radiant smile. Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed that your teeth have a yellowish color, despite brushing them regularly twice a day? It can be frustrating, isn’t it? You might wonder why you still have a yellowish color even after having an ideal dental hygiene routine. The hard-hitting truth is that color changes of teeth happen to multiple people, and different factors can be the reason for it. Let’s look more deeply into it.
What might be the reason for the yellowish tinge in the teeth?
Before you even start worrying about your discolored teeth, it is important to understand that teeth in general are not completely brilliant white. There are several reasons for yellow teeth, and a few natural reasons can be due to the components like
Enamel:
The hard, white material known as enamel that covers the outermost layer of your teeth. It is also said to be the hardest part of your teeth and body. It’s slightly translucent and can show the color of the underneath layer.
Dentin:
Underneath the enamel is the dentin, which is naturally yellowish in color, and the bony tissue that forms the weight of your teeth. Even the whitest enamel cannot be seen as white as the dentin present below still shows through the enamel.
What are the factors that contribute to yellow teeth?
While a slightly off-white is expected, several factors can make this yellowish tinge more visible than usual:
Foods and drinks:
You might have heard that coffee, tea, and certain drinks can stain your teeth. These foods and drinks contain pigments called chromogens that stick to the enamel and can lead to discoloration overtime. Also carbonated drinks like sodas, have chemical properties that can damage the enamel over time. The dentin present below can be exposed leading to discoloration and pain in the teeth.
Smoking or use of tobacco:
Generally people who have the habit of using tobacco products have deeper yellow-colored teeth when compared to others. Nicotine present in teeth can cause some serious brown or yellow colored discoloration in the teeth. The yellow stains on teeth caused by nicotine are highly difficult to remove.
Age:
The natural aging process thins your enamel over time, making the yellow dentin underneath more visible. This gradual yellowing process is considered normal.
What are the types of teeth stains?
There are two major types of teeth discoloration or stains. They are intrinsic and extrinsic.
Extrinsic:
Extrinsic as the name says, they are generally on the outside and on the surface of the enamel. These extrinsic stains can occur due to some food, or even tobacco. They can be resolved by following proper dental habits and limiting or avoiding certain habits can help overcome these discolorations.
Intrinsic:
This type of stains are usually inside of the teeth. These stains may occur due to a few cracks that may make way to the sudden discoloration of teeth and these stains can be difficult to treat. Seeking professional help can be the right choice to treat intrinsic stains.
What are the brushing mistakes that you might be making?
While brushing your teeth is crucial to maintaining oral health, a few things can affect its effectiveness in preventing the yellowing of the teeth:
Improper technique:
If you’re not brushing correctly (missing surfaces, not brushing long enough), it may lead to plaque and stain buildup.
Ineffective toothpaste:
Some whitening toothpastes aren’t strong enough to remove stubborn stains efficiently.
Brushing infrequency:
Everyday brushing the teeth twice is ideal. If you’re brushing only once a day or less, the chances of staining are much higher.
Can the yellow teeth be whitened again?
Indeed, teeth that are yellow can be whitened again. It’s best to see a dentist and have a professional teeth whitening if you want your teeth to be noticed. Additionally, you might need to get dental veneers, which can resolve issues like yellow teeth and it can change the way you look. Dental veneers are thin coating on the teeth that help your teeth look whiter.
Can vitamin deficiencies cause yellowing teeth?
Adults with low vitamin D levels may develop periodontal disease and gingivitis. Does having insufficient vitamin D lead to yellowing of teeth? Yes, yellow teeth can be a symptom of vitamin D deficiency. Teeth spots that are yellow or brown are a sign of rickets, a disease brought on by persistently low vitamin D levels.
What are the tips to prevent yellowing of the teeth?
There are always certain tips that you can follow to prevent yellowing of the teeth, and can improve the overall appearance of your teeth:
Professional teeth whitening:
A dentist can help you with professional teeth whitening and several other treatment options that can help overcome yellowing of the teeth. Reach out to the best dental care in Coimbatore to seek professional care to reverse the yellowing of the teeth.
Over-the-counter Whitening Products:
Whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste can be helpful for gradual whitening over time. Look for those that contain hydrogen peroxide.
Dietary changes:
Limit or reduce the intake of staining foods and beverages. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming them to minimize staining.
Quit smoking:
Besides several health benefits, quitting smoking can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth.
Seek professional advice:
If you are worried about the color of your teeth, your dentist can determine the cause of the discoloration and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your case.
Important Takeaway:
Teeth have a natural white color, perfectly white teeth aren’t the standard for everyone. There are several reasons for yellow-teeth, oral hygiene may be just one factor. For significant or noticeable yellowing, always consult a top dentist in Coimbatore to ensure there is no underlying dental issue.
