The Surprising Reasons Your Teeth Aren’t as White Anymore

As we age, the outer enamel layer of our teeth gradually thins, allowing more of the naturally yellow dentin beneath to show through. Yellowing teeth are often not just about surface stains, they can be a sign of enamel wearing away, revealing the naturally yellow dentin. Certain everyday habits can accelerate this change:

• Overusing Acidic Mouthwash can erode enamel. Saliva naturally protects your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away bacteria and stains.

• Consuming Acidic items, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar-based dressings, carbonated drinks, and sports drinks can wear down enamel. Rinsing with water afterward helps counteract this effect and reduce staining.

• Coffee or black tea can stain teeth due to porous enamel. Sipping slowly keeps these staining agents in contact with your teeth longer. Drinking more quickly or using a straw positioned behind your teeth minimizes exposure.

• Tobacco’s chemicals from smoking can stick to enamel and cause discoloration. Over time, this can significantly yellow teeth and also increases risks of gum disease, cavities, and oral health problems. 

• Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, which can thin enamel and make teeth appear yellower. A solid daily routine plus a professional cleaning at least once a year can keep stains at bay. Additionally, aggressive brushing, especially with abrasive toothpaste not approved by the ADA, can wear down enamel and expose dentin.

Avoiding these harmful habits, and maintaining regular dental checkups and cleaning can help slow the yellowing of your teeth. Our office also provides a number of whitening services that we can recommend at your next visit to help you get back your pearly white smile!

Source: https://www.prevention.com/health/a65630576/yellow-teeth-habits/