Even when you’re consistently on top of your oral health, you might still notice yellow teeth. Daily brushing and flossing are crucial for your oral health, but these habits can’t always keep your teeth perfectly white.
You might be surprised to learn that teeth aren’t naturally a bright white shade. Just as everyone has a different skin tone, the colour of your teeth is also unique to you. Everyday factors like diet, lifestyle, and even genetics can lead to discolouration over time.
Fortunately, with some at-home changes and professional whitening, a brighter smile is easier to reach than ever.
Are Teeth Naturally White?
Teeth may look white on the outside. However, their natural colouration is more complex.
Tooth anatomy plays a significant role in how teeth appear. The outer layer, called enamel, is translucent. Beneath it lies a layer called dentin, which is naturally yellow. The shade of your teeth depends on the thickness of your enamel and the unique shade of your dentin.
Over time, enamel can wear down from chewing, brushing, or acidic foods. Thinning allows more yellowish dentin to show through, making teeth look less white. Stark-white teeth aren’t always realistic, but there are options to brighten their appearance.
The Common Causes of Tooth Stains
Your teeth can lose their brightness for several reasons, and these causes generally fall into 2 categories: intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic Tooth Stains
Intrinsic tooth stains come from within the tooth. It can develop due to:
- Aging & thinning enamel
- Certain medications
- Trauma or injury to a tooth
- Genetic factors influencing tooth colour
You can work toward a brighter, healthier smile with the appropriate dental care and treatment options.
Extrinsic Tooth Stains
Extrinsic tooth stains are the stains on the surface of your teeth caused by foods, drinks, or lifestyle habits. They tend to be caused by:
- Coffee & tea
- Red wine
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Dark-coloured sodas
- Certain fruits, such as berries
- Poor oral hygiene practices
Over time, these stains can build up, resulting in dull-looking teeth. Even brushing too hard or using overly abrasive toothpaste can wear away enamel, making teeth appear more stained.
While plaque is a soft, colourless film that forms on your teeth, if it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can create a yellow or brownish residue that can’t be removed with brushing and flossing at home. A professional dental cleaning is necessary to remove tartar thoroughly.
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening can offer a fast, effective way to regain a brighter, whiter look. The procedure is performed in a dental office. Your dentist uses more potent whitening agents than over-the-counter kits to create longer-lasting results.
Unlike at-home whitening kits, professional whitening is monitored by a dentist. Their guidance helps significantly lower the risk of side effects like tooth sensitivity or irritated gums.
When you’re dealing with deep discolouration or yellow teeth, a professional treatment can produce results that other methods typically can’t match. It can be a powerful way to whiten your teeth.
What to Expect From a Teeth Whitening Appointment
If you’ve never had your teeth professionally whitened, it’s natural to wonder what happens during the process.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- You’ll start with an initial consultation to examine your teeth, discuss your goals, & identify any obstacles, such as tooth sensitivity.
- Your hygienist will clean your teeth by removing plaque or surface buildup.
- A protective gel or barrier will be applied to your gums to shield them during the procedure.
- A high-quality whitening gel will be applied to your teeth & you’ll wait for about 45 minutes.
- A special LED light activates the whitening gel, gently lifting stains.
- You’ll finish with a rinse & personalized advice to help maintain your results.
Most appointments take about an hour. You should notice almost immediate results. Your dentist can then guide you on how to maintain your new smile—and how often you should return for touch-up appointments and cleanings.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Safe?
When done at your dentist’s office, teeth whitening is safe. The whitening products used in clinics are extensively tested to meet safety standards. Your dentist will use protective measures, like covering your gums, to help reduce sensitivity or irritation during the procedure.
They’ll also make sure the treatment suits your personal dental history. Your comfort and safety are top priorities; these appointments are designed to keep your teeth looking and feeling fresh.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Tips Between Treatments
Maintaining whiter teeth at home is a manageable process with proactive habits. Try working these tips into your routine to keep your smile bright:
- Brush twice daily, floss regularly, & use an alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent new stains
- Try a whitening toothpaste that includes fluoride to fight stains & strengthen enamel
- Avoid stain-causing foods & drinks, or rinse your mouth with water afterward
- Consider using at-home whitening kits recommended by your dentist
- Use custom whitening trays provided by your dentist after a professional whitening to help maintain results longer
These easy practices can make enjoying long-lasting results from your professional teeth whitening treatment easier.
Take the First Step Toward a Brighter Smile
Your smile deserves attention and care. Professional teeth whitening can make a difference, whether your yellow teeth are due to natural factors or external staining. Our team at Hill Top Dental Centre is ready to help.
Book an appointment with us today and start your journey toward a fresher, brighter smile!
