Many of us are under the belief that if we brush our teeth every day, our teeth will be white. However, this is not the case. Even if we floss, brush, and use mouthwash on a routine basis, our teeth can still yellow. Here is why your teeth are still yellow, even though you brush your teeth.
It is possible that your teeth are currently yellow because you consume certain foods and drinks that can stain your teeth. Foods that are high in tannins, such as red wine, can potentially cause yellow teeth. In addition to red wine, coffee, citrus fruits and juices, soft drinks, teas, berries, tomato-based sauces, curry, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce can stain your teeth.
Another reason you may have yellow teeth is because you smoke or use tobacco products. Cigarettes and other tobacco products that need to be burned in order to be used contain tar, which stains your teeth and causes other oral health problems.
Some medications can actually lead to teeth yellowing. Tooth discoloration can be a side effect of some treatments for medical conditions like asthma and high blood pressure.
There are two main types of teeth stains; extrinsic stains and intrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains are stains on the exterior of your teeth and can be caused by using tobacco or eating and drinking certain foods. Meanwhile, intrinsic stains happen within the teeth and can be harder to solve. These stains are often found in teeth that are dying or have had a root canal in the past. The stains are caused by small cracks in the teeth, which let in food, beverages, and tobacco.
If you’d like a whiter and brighter smile, get in touch with Dr. Marshall Skopp, DMD. At our office, we can assist with improving your oral health and the appearance of your smile. You can schedule your consultation with us by calling 718-982-5230. We are located at 2040 Forest Avenue in Staten Island, New York, and we look forward to seeing you soon.