Stained or Yellow Teeth? Here's What You Can Do About Them



A white smile will always boost your self confidence and give you a more healthy, attractive and youthful appearance. If you suffer from yellow or stained teeth, not only can this indicate that your dental health may be at risk but if your teeth are in poor condition, but your self esteem can suffer too. Speak to your dentist and find out about teeth whitening Macleod

Teeth Cleaning and Maintenance
There are a range of different factors which can affect the colour of your teeth and have a negative impact on the overall appearance of your smile. Poor oral hygiene is one cause of yellow teeth due to surface staining. You must maintain a good oral hygiene routine to not only ensure your teeth are clean and white but also to prevent the formation of complicated dental issues which can affect your oral health. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing after meals and using a good mouthwash can keep your teeth clean and prevent the development of unsightly stains. It is also important that you visit the dentist on a regular basis and undergo a scale and polish with the hygienist at least twice a year to remove excess plaque and hardened tartar which may buildup on your teeth that can also affect the colour of your teeth making them appear dull and yellow. 

Lifestyle Factors
There are many different foods and drinks which can also have an effect on the colour of your teeth. Highly pigmented food colourings or even natural foods that have a deep colour can stain your teeth over time. Turmeric is responsible for making your teeth appear yellow. Berries can stain your teeth and having soy sauce in your food on a regular basis can stain your teeth. Drinks such as tea, coffee and cola are also responsible for teeth staining. Smoking and other similar lifestyle choices are detrimental to your oral health. Tar and nicotine can cause your teeth to appear brown or yellow and are also harmful for your teeth and gums. Smokers are prone to dental issues and therefore it is vital that you visit the dentist more frequently. Certain medical conditions and medication can also have a negative impact on the appearance of your teeth. 

Teeth Whitening 
If you are affected by teeth staining then speak to your dentist and find out about the different treatments available for teeth whitening. For health and safety reasons you must ensure that any teeth whitening treatment is prescribed by your dentist to ensure that it is safe to use and is suitable for you. To find out if you are eligible for teeth whitening your dentist will assess your mouth to ensure that you have healthy teeth and gums which will not be affected by the chemicals that are used in teeth whitening systems. Teeth whitening is carried out using a combination of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide bleaching agents. These should only be used under the supervision of your dentist or with your dentist directions. You can choose to carry out teeth whitening at the dental practice or in the comfort of your own home depending on your dental requirements and your personal preferences. Speak to your dentist today and find out more about teeth whitening for you.