Teeth can be a topic of great interest and concern for many people. When you look in the mirror, do you see perfectly white teeth? Maybe they’re a little yellow, but that’s natural wear and tear over time. But what if they’re downright yellow?
Fear not, because there’s an explanation for why your teeth might look different in the mirror than they do when you see them in person. In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of yellow teeth, how to treat them, and what to expect in the future.
The Types of Teeth Whitening Products
There are a few different teeth-whitening products on the market today. Some require you to use a whitening toothpaste regularly, while others require a light or special laser treatment. Here’s a look at the three most common types of teeth whitening products and what they do:
The Toothpaste Whitener: This is the simplest type of teeth whitening product. You use toothpaste on your teeth as you would any other toothpaste, and it whitens your teeth. The biggest downside to this type of whitening is that it doesn’t work very well on stained teeth. The toothpaste will only partially lighten the color if you have brown tooth enamel.
The Light Whitening Treatment: This whitening treatment uses a laser or light to break down the enamel on your teeth and make them lighter in color. This treatment is more effective than toothpaste but is also more expensive and time-consuming.
The Special Whitening Treatment: This whitening treatment uses a special gel or cream that you apply to your teeth before using a light or laser.
How to Use Teeth Whitening Products Effectively?
Like many people, you might wonder why your teeth look yellow in the mirror. This is primarily due to toothpaste and tooth whitening products being ineffective. The key to using these products effectively is to use the right one for your teeth and to follow the instructions closely. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
1. Choose a toothpaste that is specially designed for teeth whitening. Many brands are available on the market, so read the ingredients carefully before buying. Some toothpaste can contain harmful chemicals that can damage your teeth.
2. Be sure to brush your teeth twice daily with whitening toothpaste. Use a pea-sized amount of the product and brush it thoroughly into each toothbrush head. Brush from front to back and top to bottom.
3. Wait for two hours before drinking coffee or eating other acidic foods. These foods can break down toothpaste and make it less effective.
4. Be patient – Whitening products take time to work their magic, so don’t be discouraged if your teeth don’t turn white immediately. Over time, they will gradually become brighter.
How Often to Apply Teeth Whitening Products?
When it comes to teeth whitening products, a few different things can be done to achieve the desired outcome. One thing to keep in mind is how often you should apply the product. While some people may feel that they need to use the product daily, others may only need to use it once or twice weekly. Experimenting with different application times will help you find what works best for you.
The Risks of Using Teeth Whitening Products
There are a few risks associated with using teeth whitening products. Whitening treatments can cause tooth sensitivity, tooth erosion, and even tooth fractures. Additionally, many whitening products contain harmful chemicals that can interfere with the body’s natural oral bacteria, leading to dental cavities and other health problems. Discuss the risks with your dentist if you’re considering using a teeth whitening product.
What Causes Teeth to Look Yellow in the Mirror?
Many people are concerned about their teeth because they see yellowing in the mirror. Several things can cause yellow teeth, but the most common culprit is oral hygiene neglect. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, food and bacteria will build up on the surfaces of your teeth and eventually cause them to turn yellow.
Another cause of yellow teeth can be acid reflux, which causes deposits of stomach acids to form on the tooth enamel. Over time, these deposits can weaken the tooth’s surface and cause it to discolor. Finally, smoking can also cause the yellowing of teeth due to cigarette smoke’s tar.
Home Remedies for Whitening Teeth
If you have ever noticed your teeth are looking a little yellow in the mirror, there may be a few home remedies you can try to whiten them up. Teeth whitening products can be expensive, so some simple tips may be all you need to achieve a whiter smile.
One of the most common causes of yellow teeth is eating foods and drinks containing tannins. These natural chemicals can leach out of foods like tea, coffee, red wine, and dark chocolate and stain your teeth. To avoid staining your teeth, try to avoid these foods and drinks as much as possible.
Another common cause of yellow teeth is smoking. Over time, cigarettes can stain teeth with nicotine residue. If you smoke, try to quit and see if that helps improve the color of your teeth. If not, consider using an oral care product that contains fluoride to help remove nicotine stains from teeth.
If you suffer from dental cavities, they can also cause the yellowing of teeth. Surgical treatment for cavities often involves filling the tooth with a white material called cement and then covering it with a layer of plastic or porcelain.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay and Yellowing?
When you brush and floss your teeth, you remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and yellowing. However, there are some things you can do to help prevent tooth decay and yellowing in the first place. One of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay and yellowing is to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks.
Additionally, make sure to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eating these foods will help to keep your teeth clean and free from plaque. Finally, make sure to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent tooth decay and yellowing.