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Whether it’s that morning coffee habit or a love for red wine, our teeth can pick up stains and lose their white sparkle over time. Read on for simple ways to prevent yellow teeth and tips on dealing with stains when they appear.

What Causes Tooth Staining?

While pearly white is often described as the “perfect” tooth colour, the natural colour of healthy teeth typically ranges from light greyish-yellow to pale yellow.

Teeth become stained due to the interaction of various substances with the tooth’s enamel. Although hard and protective, the enamel is porous and can absorb pigments from food and drinks. Beneath the enamel is the dentin, a yellowish layer that can become more visible as the enamel wears away, contributing to a stained appearance.

When we consume dark-coloured foods and beverages, they leave behind chromogens, which are deeply pigmented molecules. These chromogens attach to the enamel’s surface, leading to extrinsic stains.

Intrinsic stains occur within the tooth itself. This can happen due to factors like certain medications (including some antibiotics), excessive fluoride intake, or trauma to the tooth.

As we age, the enamel also thins naturally, allowing the underlying dentin to show through more prominently, which can make teeth appear darker or more yellow.

Poor dental hygiene also plays a role, as inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – to build up on the teeth. This plaque can attract and hold stain-causing substances, worsening discolouration.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

While tobacco use is a leading cause of teeth discolouration, foods and beverages can also cause tooth yellowing. Some of the biggest culprits are:

• Coffee and tea
• Red wine
• Dark sodas
• Berries
• Tomato-based sauces
• Soy sauce
• Balsamic vinegar
• Beets
• Certain fruit juices (like grape or cranberry juice)

The good news is you don’t have to eliminate stain-causing foods and drinks from your diet, but it is best to enjoy them in moderation. After meals, rinse your mouth with water to neutralise acids and wash away food particles. Using a straw when drinking dark-coloured liquids can help minimise contact with teeth. Remember to position the straw towards the back of the mouth to further reduce contact with front teeth.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Maintaining a rigorous oral hygiene routine is fundamental in preventing tooth discolouration. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice daily for two minutes each session using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Consider using an electric toothbrush. Studies have shown they can be more effective at removing plaque and surface stains than manual brushing. Replace toothbrushes or electric brush heads every three to four months.

Regular Dentist Visits

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for preventing tooth discolouration. During these visits, dentists can remove stubborn plaque and tartar regular brushing and flossing might not eliminate. Dentists can also provide personalised advice on maintaining tooth colour and offer professional whitening treatments when appropriate.

Addressing Existing Stains

For individuals already experiencing tooth discolouration, several treatment options are available:

Over-the-Counter Whitening Products

These include whitening toothpastes, strips, and gels. While effective for mild staining, results may take several weeks to become noticeable.

Professional In-Office Whitening

Dentist-administered treatments utilise higher concentrations of whitening agents, offering more dramatic results in a shorter timeframe.

Take-Home Professional Kits

Custom-fitted trays with professional-grade whitening gel provide a middle ground between over-the-counter products and in-dentist-office treatments.

Dental Veneers

Porcelain veneers can provide a permanent solution for severe discolouration or intrinsic staining.

Remember, everyone’s teeth are different. What works for one person might not work for another. Chatting with your dentist before starting any whitening regimen is always a good idea, especially if you have sensitive teeth or existing dental work.

Conclusion

Maintaining a bright smile requires dietary awareness, diligent oral hygiene, lifestyle modifications, and regular professional care. Implementing the above strategies can prevent tooth discolouration and address existing stains. Remember, while a white smile is aesthetically pleasing, the primary goal should always be maintaining optimal oral health.

At Affinity Dental, we are dedicated to making dental care accessible and affordable for you and your family. When you choose one of our dental plans, you can access a vast network of over 2,000 skilled and professional dentists. Our benefits include mouth examinations, scale and polish, intraoral radiographs, infection control, and more. Contact Affinity Dental for helpful advice on which dental plan best suits you and your family, and visit a network Dentist for more ways to keep your smile healthy.