Reasons Why My Teeth May Be Turning Yellow

1. Grinding Teeth or Acid Wear/Erosion: Grinding your teeth causes the outer layer (enamel) to wear down, exposing the yellowish inner layer (dentine). Similarly, acidic foods, drinks, and certain lifestyle factors can erode the enamel, revealing more of the dentine.

2. Tooth Abrasion or Recession: Abrasion can occur due to improper brushing techniques or using a medium or firm toothbrush. Excessive pressure or a scrubbing motion can wear down the enamel, exposing the yellow dentine over time.

3. Trauma to a Tooth: Trauma can cause one tooth to become discoloured (yellow, black, or brown). If the tooth’s nerve is damaged due to injury, discolouration can occur.

4. Diet: Foods and drinks like red wine, tea, coffee, and curries, along with habits like smoking, can stain teeth.

5. Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque and calculus buildup, making teeth appear yellow or brown. Good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups can prevent this.

6. Tooth Abnormalities: Conditions like hypomineralisation or fluorosis, among others, can also cause teeth to appear yellow. It's important to discuss these concerns with your dental practitioner.

How Can I Make My Teeth Whiter?

Before trying any whitening products or procedures, consult with your dental practitioner.

1. Whitening Toothpaste: Some whitening toothpastes rely on abrasive ingredients, which may help with surface staining but could increase sensitivity with long-term use. Other toothpastes contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide but may have limited effectiveness due to low concentrations of these ingredients.

2. Activated Charcoal: Charcoal toothpastes or powders mixed with water can be effective for surface stains caused by pigmented foods, drinks, or tobacco. However, they may be too abrasive for long-term use and should be approached with caution.

3. Custom-Made Home Whitening Kits: These kits, usually containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, are custom-fitted to your teeth and come in higher concentrations than over-the-counter products.

4. In-Office Whitening: Performed by a dentist, this procedure typically uses a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide for quicker, more noticeable results.

Important: Before considering any whitening options, always consult with your dental practitioner to ensure the safest and most effective treatment for your teeth.