How Are My Teeth Still Yellow?
by Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D.
Read How Are My Teeth Still Yellow? by Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D. to learn more about Grove Smiles® Dentistry and our Dentistry office in Coconut Grove, FL.
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Are you self conscious and half smile to cover your teeth? Do you just can not understand why your teeth are still yellow for you brush your teeth at least twice a day with special whitening toothpaste, floss regularly, and make sure to gargle?
Read on to find out what other reasons why your teeth are not vividly white and/or not staying brilliantly white after treatment.
Teeth Color Truth
It seems like everyone is born with perfect teeth, but the truth is, most celebrities and even ordinary people are either blessed with white teeth genetically, have their teeth professionally whitened, or use teeth whitening products. So if you have impeccable dental hygiene but your teeth are still yellow or return quickly to the less desired yellow color after whitening treatments it is most likely caused by what you are eating and drinking.
Why Were My Teeth More White When I Was A Child?
The enamel on your tooth is naturally white, especially when it is at its thickest but as you age and your enamel wears down, your tooth starts to show the color of the dentin layer of your teeth. The dentin layer is not white and has a yellowish tint. The thinner your enamel layer is, the more yellow your teeth will look (no matter how many times you brush).
Recipe for Better Success
At the top of the recipe of ingredients that can cause teeth staining is the obvious wine or black tea. This is followed shortly by the sugary foods and drinks that will also break down the enamel. For the perfect recipe for long term damage simply add the secret ingredients of sodas, energy drinks, curries and other sauces, condiments such as balsamic vinegar and ketchup, and even fruit juices with a pinch of the true acids of citrus fruits, coffee, and tomatoes.
Do not give up! This doesn’t mean that we have to restrict our diet and avoid all of these foods to keep our teeth clean. Instead, there is one very simple thing that you can do to help protect your teeth: drink water!
Swishing away some of the food or drink residue with some water can make a big difference on how white your teeth will stay. The saliva in your mouth is also a natural protectant of your teeth, so if you feel like you’re getting dehydrated or your mouth seems dry, drink water to help keep the pH balance of your mouth at a healthy level. Plus! Do not be overly eager about brushing your teeth right after you eat. Your dental enamel actually softens slightly after eating and needs about an hour or so to harden up again before you can brush your teeth.
Ready To Help!
Dr. Stephen Parr has been providing the Coconut Grove, FL community dental care for over thirty years and looks forward to helping you and your families keep your healthy sparkling smiles for life.
If you are looking to whiten, brighten, and keep your teeth pearly white, call our amazing team of dentists and hygienists today and let us help you create that confident smile you will love to share.
For Your Health,
Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D.
