Your diet, along with your choice of beverages, is one of the things responsible for stained teeth. This is especially true if you regularly consume acidic foods and drinks, including citrus foods, coffee, wine, and cola. Regular consumption of these bathes your teeth with acid and weakens the enamel. This then exposes the dentin or the layer beneath the enamel, which is naturally yellow in color.
Although your diet is the worst offender for teeth stains, there are other things to blame if you have a discolored smile. Dental offices in Scottsdale, AZ share some of the other things that can cause your teeth to appear dull and yellow.
It might be in your genes.
The shade or the color of your teeth can run in the family. This only means that if your mother or father has a yellow smile, it is likely that you’ll have the same shade or discoloration. If you’re bothered with the color of your teeth, you can consult a dentist to learn more about your options for safe and effective teeth whitening.
You are getting older
It is common for the enamel or the outer layer of the tooth to lose its shine as we age. The daily wear and tear on teeth can also contribute to the yellowing of the teeth, which can look much more noticeable if you have poor dental hygiene. The same is also true if you are taking certain medications that can darken the teeth, like the antibiotics tetracycline and doxycycline.
You smoke.
Apart from compromising your overall health, smoking or using tobacco products can also stain your teeth. If you have been stuck in this habit for a very long time, it is likely that you may notice brownish stains or deep-seated discoloration. Good dental hygiene or brushing daily is not enough to get rid of these; you’ll need professional teeth whitening, as well as kick the habit.
You don’t brush enough.
If you are only brushing once a day, there is no mystery as to why your teeth are looking dull and yellow. Doing so allows the sugars, acids, and bacteria to linger in your teeth, and attack and weaken the enamel. This only makes it important to brush two to three times a day for two minutes each time. If you can’t brush after eating, at least rinse your mouth with water.
You brush too much.
While it seems like a good idea to brush your teeth too often or use too much toothpaste, it can wear away the enamel and expose the yellow hue of the dentin. It is best to limit the habit to three times a day and use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for every brushing session. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes when cleaning your choppers.
You grind your teeth.
Bruxism or tooth grinding is an unconscious habit that usually occurs during sleep or at times of stress. This is harmful to your enamel, as it can weaken it and sometimes cause it to crack and yellow. If you think that you grind your teeth or if a loved one says you do, you can visit your dentist to examine your mouth and jaw, and address the problem.
Tweaking your diet and voiding the things mentioned above can help you prevent further stains. If your teeth, however, are already discolored, it is best to consult a dentist to know more about the options that can brighten your smile.
