Why Are My Teeth Still Yellow When I Brush Them Every Day? Understanding the Causes

Why Are My Teeth Yellow When I Brush Them Everyday?

We’ve all been there—brushing our teeth every day, following the routine to keep our smiles bright and clean, only to be disappointed by yellowish teeth that just won’t seem to fade. It's an issue that frustrates many, and the cause is not always as straightforward as one might think. While daily brushing is essential for oral hygiene, there are several factors, both external and internal, that can lead to the persistence of yellow teeth.

In India, the quest for a sparkling white smile is just as important as it is in other parts of the world, and many of us turn to various remedies, including Ayurvedic solutions, to achieve that. But before you reach for a whitening toothpaste or try a DIY remedy, it’s essential to understand the root causes of yellow teeth and how to address them effectively.

Common Causes of Yellow Teeth 

1. Stains from Food and Drink

One of the most common reasons for yellow teeth is staining from certain foods and beverages. This is a global issue, but in India, it is even more prevalent due to our rich food culture. Popular foods and drinks like tea, coffee, and food cooked in spices are known to stain teeth over time. The pigments in these substances can attach to the enamel, causing discoloration.

Remedy:

• Rinse After Eating: It’s a simple yet effective solution. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming foods and drinks that are known to cause staining. This helps to wash away any particles and pigments before they set into the enamel.
• Brushing After Meals: If possible, brush your teeth after consuming such foods, though wait for about 30 minutes to avoid damaging your enamel.
• Natural Remedies: Using ingredients like baking soda or activated charcoal in moderation can help lift stains. However, these should not be overused as they can wear down the enamel.

2. Poor Oral Hygiene

While brushing your teeth every day is a good habit, it’s possible that you’re not brushing thoroughly or for long enough. The goal is not just to brush, but to do so in a way that removes plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can accumulate on your teeth, leading to yellowing. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is harder to get rid of and may require professional cleaning.

Remedy:

• Brush for Two Minutes: It’s essential to brush your teeth with products which are made with high quality and natural ingredients for at least two minutes to ensure you’re cleaning every surface of your teeth.
• Flossing: Brushing alone is often not enough. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth.
• Oil Pulling: Using an ayurvedic herbs based oil for oil pulling can help reduce the bacteria in your mouth that contribute to plaque formation.

3. Genetics

Genetics play a significant role in the color of your teeth. Some people naturally have more translucent enamel, which can make their teeth appear yellowish even if they maintain excellent oral hygiene. Additionally, some individuals may be predisposed to developing thicker layers of dentin, which also contributes to yellowing.

4. Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking and the use of tobacco products are notorious for staining teeth. The tar and nicotine from cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco products can cause deep yellow or even brown stains that are hard to remove. These stains don’t just discolor the teeth; they also lead to more serious health issues like gum disease. 

Remedy:

• Quit Smoking: The most effective way to stop tobacco stains from getting worse is to quit smoking altogether.
• Miswak and Babool: Use products which have miswak and babool which can help remove stains and nurture teeth and gums.

5. Health Conditions and Medications

Certain health conditions and medications can lead to yellowing teeth. For instance, few medications can cause teeth to become discolored, especially if they are taken when the teeth are still developing. Additionally, conditions like acid reflux can erode enamel, leading to yellow teeth.

Remedy:

• Consult a Doctor: If your yellow teeth are due to medication or health conditions, it’s important to discuss alternatives with your doctor. In some cases, adjusting the medication can help improve the color of your teeth.
• Ayurvedic Herbs: Triphala, an Ayurvedic blend of three fruits (Amalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki), is known for its detoxifying properties and can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

6. Fluorosis

Fluorosis is a condition that occurs when there is too much fluoride exposure. Excessive fluoride can lead to discolored teeth, with white streaks or a yellowish-brown color.

Remedy:

• Professional Treatment: If fluorosis is severe, professional dental treatments, such as bleaching or veneers, may be required to improve the appearance of the teeth.

How Can I Stop My Teeth Going Yellow? Preventive Measures and Solutions For Yellow Teeth

If there has been continuous discoloration of your teeth and substantial staining or yellowishness is observed than proper measure should be taken to stop or reverse the coloring. Most basic step could be to make changes in the lifestyle and avoid:

1. Excessive tea or coffee
2. Tobacco chewing or smoking
3. Avoiding basic oral hygiene routine

Here are a few preventive measures you can take:

• Brush Properly: Ensure you brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Opt for a toothpaste with mild abrasives that can help remove surface stains.
• Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, which can help prevent staining.
• Use Whitening Toothpaste: Toothpaste with whitening agents can help remove surface stains and lighten the color of your teeth over time.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are important for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing yellowing. Your dentist can also advise on the best whitening options for you.
• Limit Staining Foods and Drinks: Reduce consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining foods. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize staining.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Yellow Teeth

If you're looking for ways to naturally brighten your smile at home, there are a few remedies you can try:

• Coconut / Sesame Oil Pulling: Swishing coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes can help remove plaque buildup, which contributes to yellowing.
• Use of Triphala, Miswak and Neem: These herbs not only helps in keeping bad bacterias at bay and nourish gums but also works as a great cleaner to remove any sticky film of sugar or any other food which might affect colour of the teeth.

Also Read: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Teeth: Natural and Professional Solutions

Can Yellow Teeth Turn White Again?

The good news is that yellow teeth can often be whitened (reversed back to the original colour of your teeth) with the right approach. While it may take time and consistency, yellow teeth can usually turn lighter again with proper care. Professional teeth whitening treatments, or natural remedies can all help reduce yellowing and restore a brighter smile. However, the results depend on the underlying cause of the discoloration. If the yellowing is caused by worn enamel or genetics, achieving a completely white smile might be more challenging, but improvement is still possible with the right treatments. Always consult your dentist for the right approach for your smile.

In conclusion, there are many factors that contribute to yellow teeth, even if you brush them every day. By understanding the causes and taking preventive measures, you can improve the appearance of your teeth and enjoy a brighter smile. If home remedies and over-the-counter solutions aren’t working, consult with your dentist to explore professional whitening options.