People have the common misconception that teeth should be perfectly white, but this isn’t the case. Even if you diligently brush your teeth twice a day, every single day, there are a couple of reasons why your teeth may not be as white as you would like them to be. Our team at Somba Kè Family Dental has put together this article so that you can find out why your teeth aren’t pearly white and find advice on how to make them whiter.
#1 Teeth Aren’t Naturally White
To begin, any dentist near you will tell you that your teeth are not naturally white. Even if your teeth were to never come into contact with staining agents, they are naturally off-white and would still appear that way.
The portion of your tooth visible above the gum line is made of enamel and dentin. Dentin is the hard tissue that makes up the majority of your tooth’s structure, and it is encased in protective enamel. Both of these structures can cause your teeth to appear discolored.
#2 Teeth Are Stained
Most of the time, teeth become stained from the substances that individuals eat and drink, as well as other lifestyle choices.
Smoking is a large culprit when it comes to stained teeth, but it isn’t the only cause. Regular ingestion of berries, coffee, red wine, and cola can all cause teeth staining. Sometimes, even prescription medications and fluoride can cause staining.
Even if you brush your teeth daily, your teeth will likely stain over time if you regularly consume dark-colored substances.
#3 Brushing Isn’t Designed to Whiten Teeth
Brushing your teeth is meant to remove harmful bacteria and plaque but not to whiten them. As recommended by your dentist, brushing twice a day is vital because it prevents cavities and tooth decay. Brushing alone will not whiten your teeth, though, and even whitening toothpaste only has a minimal effect on your teeth.
Over-The-Counter Whitening Options
There are many options for over-the-counter teeth whitening in Yellowknife. These products can offer some benefits, but they are often extremely limited in what they can do to whiten your smile.
Whitening strips, toothpastes, and mouthwashes can only affect surface enamel and thus only get surface-level stains out. Additionally, many over-the-counter whitening treatments do not offer even results, and patients end up with patchy teeth.
Overuse of over-the-counter whitening products can do more harm than good since many of them can damage your tooth enamel when used improperly.
Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments
The best and safest way to get a whiter, brighter smile is to visit a dental clinic in Yellowknife for professional teeth whitening near you.
Depending on your teeth and desired appearance, there are several recommendations that your dentist might make. For example, you may be offered an in-office bleaching treatment or be given custom-made whitening trays to use at home. Both options will provide you with an enhanced, radiant smile, and you can rest assured that you will receive quick, safe, and long-lasting results.
If you are interested in learning more about achieving whiter teeth in a safe and effective manner, contact our team at Somba Ké Family Dental. Our dentists know what whitening treatments will work best for your smile and are happy to assist you. Please contact us to book a consultation today!
FAQs
Regular ingestion of berries, coffee, red wine, and cola can all cause teeth staining. Sometimes, even prescription medications and fluoride can cause staining. Even if you brush your teeth daily, your teeth will likely stain over time if you regularly consume dark-colored substances.
Why are my teeth still yellow if I brush them everyday? ›
The most common reason for yellow teeth despite daily brushing is incorrect brushing techniques. Inadequate removal of plaque causes staining. To brush correctly, reach every corner and brush for two minutes, twice daily. Brush the tongue to eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath and tooth discoloration.
Can yellow teeth become white again by brushing? ›
Your teeth can also develop stains from foods like berries, coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, et cetera. Staining also results from prescription medications, fluoride, and aging. Brushing your teeth diligently helps remove harmful plaque and bacteria from your teeth but isn't effective whiten them.
Why are my teeth not white even after brushing? ›
Products like coffee, cola, berries, tomato sauce, and wine are common culprits that can stain your teeth. You should also remember that you'll likely experience staining if you continue to consume these items, even if you brush your teeth regularly.
Why are my teeth not getting whiter? ›
Your Teeth Aren't Clean
You may not see it, but your teeth may have a dirty biofilm or layer of plaque buildup that is preventing the whitening agents from targeting your tooth stains. Consider teeth whitening after your next routine dental cleaning.
How do you get rid of yellow teeth forever? ›
Remedies for yellow teeth
- Brushing your teeth. Your first plan of action should be to brush your teeth more often and in the correct manner. ...
- Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. ...
- Coconut oil pulling. ...
- Apple cider vinegar. ...
- Lemon, orange, or banana peels. ...
- Activated charcoal. ...
- Eating fruits and vegetables with a higher water content.
How Long Does It Take Yellow Teeth To Turn White? If you opt for at-home products like dentist-recommended whitening toothpaste and brush twice daily, results can be seen in two to six weeks. There are many types of whitening toothpaste, and their effects can vary.
How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›
Baking-powder eliminates stains on the surface of your teeth and lemon juice as we already said has multiple components that lighten teeth. Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.
What vitamin deficiency causes yellow teeth? ›
In adults, low vitamin D status can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Does vitamin D deficiency cause yellow teeth? Yes, vitamin D deficiency can show up as yellow teeth. Yellow or brown spots on teeth are a symptom of rickets, a condition caused by chronic low levels of vitamin D.
How can I make my teeth to be white again? ›
For your benefit, we've provided you with seven different ways to naturally whiten your teeth.
- Eat Strawberries. ...
- Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
- Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
- Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
- Apply Coconut Oil. ...
- Brush Your Tongue. ...
- Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.
If your teeth have any signs of decay or worn enamel, then you may also experience sensitivity if you undertake treatment. Additionally, you should note that if you have crowns or veneers, then these will not be whitened by the teeth whitening process.
Are yellow teeth healthy? ›
Non-White or Yellow Teeth are Unhealthy
This myth is peddled by firms which want us to spend a fortune on getting a perfect “movie star” smile. Although heavy staining and yellow plaque deposits aren't healthy, it's very possible for yellowish teeth to be absolutely clean and healthy.
Are yellow teeth permanent? ›
Adult teeth will eventually lose their yellow shade, brightening and whitening over time. If your child's teeth are uneven in their coloring now because their permanent teeth are erupting, just give it some time. As long as they follow good oral hygiene practices, the color should even out into a white smile again.
Why are my teeth yellow when I have good oral hygiene? ›
Diet: Certain foods that are high in tannins, such as red wine, are potential causes of yellow teeth. Some of the most common causes of tooth discoloration include drinking beverages such as coffee, tea, and wine. These substances get into the enamel of your teeth and can cause long-term discoloration.
Why do my teeth still look yellow after whitening? ›
Teeth can become temporarily dehydrated after using whitening strips. Your teeth may appear more yellow as a result of this dehydration because the enamel may become dry and lack moisture. Dehydrated enamel sometimes has a transparent appearance that makes the naturally yellowish dentin underneath visible.
Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them everyday home remedies? ›
There are many factors that can cause teeth to become yellow including:
- Consuming pigmented food or drinks like tea, coffee, red wine, etc.
- Chewing tobacco or smoking.
- Everyday wear and tear of enamel.
- Genetics and other natural causes.
- Certain medications.
- Accidents or trauma.
