Why does my teeth turn yellow?
Teeth can turn yellow for several reasons, and it's often a result of a combination of factors. Here are some common reasons why teeth may become discolored:
Staining from food and beverages: Consuming certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and certain spices, can stain the enamel of your teeth over time.
Tobacco use: Smoking or using other forms of tobacco can lead to yellowing of teeth. Nicotine and tar, present in tobacco products, can contribute to discoloration.
Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth, which can cause them to appear yellow. Good oral hygiene practices help prevent this.
Aging: As people age, the enamel on their teeth naturally wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. This can make teeth look more yellow over time.
Genetics: Some people may have naturally thicker or more translucent enamel, which can affect the appearance of their teeth. Genetics can play a role in tooth color.
Medications: Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause tooth discoloration when taken during tooth development in childhood.
Dental trauma: Injury to the teeth can cause them to darken or turn yellow, especially if the trauma affects the blood supply to the tooth.
Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride intake during tooth development, usually in childhood, can lead to fluorosis, causing discoloration and pitting of the enamel.
Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as certain metabolic disorders or jaundice, can affect tooth color.
Poor diet: A diet lacking in essential nutrients, particularly calcium, can contribute to tooth discoloration.
What does whitening do to my teeth?
Tooth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching, is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to lighten the color of your teeth. The process involves the use of bleaching agents, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to break down and remove stains on the tooth enamel. Here's what tooth whitening does to your teeth:
Removes Stains: Tooth whitening primarily targets extrinsic stains on the enamel surface. These stains can result from the consumption of pigmented food and drinks, smoking, or other external factors. The bleaching agents penetrate the enamel and break down the molecules responsible for staining, making the teeth appear whiter.
Lightens Intrinsic Stains: In addition to extrinsic stains, tooth whitening can also have some effect on intrinsic stains, which are stains that occur within the tooth structure. However, the effectiveness of whitening on intrinsic stains may vary, and severe intrinsic discoloration may require other cosmetic dentistry procedures like veneers.
Brightens the Overall Appearance: Tooth whitening can enhance the overall brightness of your smile by improving the shade of your teeth. It is a non-invasive way to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
It's important to note that tooth whitening procedures have some limitations and may not be suitable for everyone. For instance:
Not Effective on Restorations: Whitening agents typically do not work on dental restorations like crowns, bridges, or fillings. If you have such restorations, they may need to be replaced to match the newly whitened natural teeth.
Temporary Results: The effects of tooth whitening are not permanent, and the teeth may gradually re-stain over time, especially if you continue to consume staining substances.
Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience tooth sensitivity during or after the whitening process. This is usually temporary and can be managed with desensitizing toothpaste or other strategies.
Gum Irritation: Whitening agents can irritate the gums, so it's important to follow the instructions provided by your dentist and use any recommended protective measures.
Before undergoing any tooth whitening procedure, it's advisable to consult with a dentist. They can assess your oral health, determine the cause of discoloration, and recommend the most appropriate whitening method for your specific situation. Additionally, professional supervision helps ensure safety and effectiveness in achieving the desired results.
How can I whiten my teeth ?
At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, our experts offer in-chair whitening treatment as well as take-home whitening kits for your convenience. Book an appointment today to see if you’re suitable for whitening treatment! Call us at 02 9558 8988 or email info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au today