Your Southern Ontario Invisalign® Provider
Are you self-conscious about the colour of your teeth? If so, you're not alone. Many people wonder 'why are my teeth so yellow?' and what they can do to achieve a brighter, whiter smile. Our orthodontists at Village Orthodontics are here to explain why your teeth are yellow and how to fix it.
What causes yellow teeth in adults?
There are several factors that determine what makes your teeth yellow. One common cause is poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque and tartar to build up on the teeth. Additionally, certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking or consuming foods and beverages with high staining properties like coffee, tea, or red wine can contribute to yellowing of the teeth.
How to Get Rid of Yellow Teeth
There are several specific steps you can take to prevent, reverse or "fix" yellow teeth. First, maintain a good oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. In addition, limit your consumption of foods and drinks that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-coloured berries. Finally, consider regular dental cleanings and professional whitening treatments to remove any surface stains and maintain a brighter smile, good oral health, and white teeth.
Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them every day?
There are several reasons why your teeth may appear yellow even if you brush them daily. One possible reason is the natural colour of your teeth, as some people naturally have slightly yellowish teeth. Age and genetics can also play a role in the natural tooth colour. Additionally, certain medications or health conditions can also contribute to tooth discoloration.
What medications or health conditions can contribute to yellow teeth?
In addition to poor oral hygiene and dietary habits, there are various medical factors that can contribute to yellow or discoloured teeth. For instance, individuals undergoing chemotherapy for head or neck cancers may experience discoloration of their teeth.
Furthermore, certain prescription medications commonly used to treat conditions like asthma and high blood pressure have been known to cause tooth staining.
Can orthodontic issues cause yellow teeth?
Orthodontic issues themselves do not directly cause yellow teeth. However, certain orthodontic treatments and treatment options, such as braces or aligners, can make it more challenging to properly clean and maintain dental hygiene. If oral hygiene is neglected during orthodontic treatment, it can lead to plaque buildup and staining, which may result in yellowing of the teeth over time.