7 Things That Are Making Your Teeth Yellow

Posted by Jade Anderson on September 2nd, 2019

When you talk or smile, the last thing you want people to notice is how yellow your teeth are. Unfortunately, many foods or bad habits individuals have can increase teeth staining, leaving the teeth with a yellow hue. However, many do not know how to fix it, or what is causing the yellow in the first place. Therefore, here is our list of things making your teeth yellow, so you know what to avoid.

1. Pasta sauce

Now, you do not have to give up your italian pasta fix forever, but tomatoes are quite high in acidity which erodes your enamels and stains your teeth yellow. Have this type of sauce in moderation, or try eating green vegetables beforehand to reduce your teeth vulnerability to discolouration. Other sauces to be weary of are soy sauce, tomato or BBQ ketchup sauces, and curry sauces.

2. Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar has high pigmentation and a sticky consistency, which can cause teeth staining. This, plus the acidity of balsamic vinegar can be detrimental to your teeth. One good thing however, is that green lettuce creates a natural protective layer over teeth, so if you are using balsamic vinegar as a salad dressing occasionally, your teeth should not suffer greatly.

3. Not Drinking Enough Water

Besides from the necessity of water for the human body, your teeth benefit from the rinsing. Any substances that may stain your teeth can be washed away by water and thus reduce the impact of other foods. Particularly, tap water with fluoride protect against decay which would cause discolouration.

4. Not Seeing the Dentist

Other than brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing, you should be visiting a dentist regularly for a check-up and clean, such as Putney Dental. It is important to get your teeth professionally cleaned, as often, regular brushing still misses areas. Some also offer whitening treatments to assist with particularly yellow teeth.

5. Not Just Coffee

Smoking and Coffee are the most commonly known reasons why teeth go yellow. But did you know that other drinks are equally as detrimental to white teeth. Tea has staining tannins tht can be even worse than coffee, so adding some milk to your tea can diffuse the strong pigmentation. Carbonated soft drinks and energy drinks can be especially harmful as they can lead to tooth decay. When the teeth are weakened, the surface is easier to stain, as well as the fact that many of these drinks have a strong colour. Either avoid these drinks altogether, or try drinking with a straw so they are not directly exposed to your front teeth.  And do not be tricked, white wine is just as bad as red wine for your teeth, due to the higher acidic levels as well contributing to discolouration.

6. Holding Food in Your Mouth

Food and drink should be only in your mouth for minimal amounts of time to avoid overexposed contact with your teeth. This means avoiding lollies that stay in your mouth and change your tongue colour, as they likely are affecting your teeth colour too. Swallowing food quickly is effective, as well as raising your teeth with the water between every couple of bites. Chewing sugarless gum is also recommended after eating to prevent further discolouration.

7. Fruit and Juices

Whilst most people do not realise due to the healthy perception of fruit, some in particular can stain teeth especially when they are in fruit juice form as colour ingredients can be present. Pomegranate, cranberry and grape juice are the biggest culprits due to their high pigmentation. Similarly, jams that are also made from these berries have the same effect. The high sugar content in fruit can also feed bacteria which makes teeth susceptible to cavities as well as stains.

Oral health is important for everyone, for both practicality and appearances. Avoid or cut down on the things making your teeth yellow for a brighter smile, and keep your teeth strong.