How to fight yellow teeth ?

The smile, a key element of our self-expression and a reflection of our personality, can sometimes be marred by a common problem: yellow teeth. Often embarrassing, yellowing teeth can affect confidence and well-being. Fortunately, there are a number of options available to help you restore the natural whiteness of your teeth and give you back the radiance of your smile. 

Why do teeth turn yellow over time ? 

To understand how teeth turn yellow, we need to understand their structure. Teeth, which are made of mineral material, are divided into several parts: 

• The crown, which is the visible part above the gum. 
• The root, which is embedded in the gum and attached to the bone. 
• Enamel, the outer layer of the tooth, usually giving it a pearly white color. Composed mostly of calcium, it is fragile and prone to thinning or microcracking over time. 

Enamel yellowing can be caused by a number of factors. Over time, enamel can thin and microcrack, allowing pigments from food and drink to seep through and stain teeth. Substances such as coffee, tea, spices, and tobacco are particularly known to stain teeth. The acidity of certain fruits, such as citrus fruits and especially soft drinks, or brushing too vigorously can also erode enamel. When enamel is damaged, more yellow dentin becomes visible. In some cases, this discoloration can be caused by hereditary factors, certain diseases, or the use of certain medications. 

What are the cosmetic options for treating yellow teeth? 

Depending on the cause and severity of your teeth yellowing, there are several treatments available: 

Dental scaling and polishing 

Scaling, performed by a dentist, removes calcified plaque, while polishing helps remove stains from enamel, restoring teeth to their natural whiteness. 

Teeth whitening  

Tooth whitening is an effective way to treat yellowing. At Claude Monet Dental Practice in Croissy-sur-Seine, an initial consultation is essential to assess your oral health and understand your needs. The practice offers outpatient whitening with customized trays. 

Dental veneers

Dental veneers are thin ceramic shells that are applied to the front of teeth to cover imperfections such as discoloration. They provide a durable, aesthetic solution. 

How can you keep your teeth white for longer? 

A healthy lifestyle is essential to maintaining white teeth. Limiting the consumption of certain foods and beverages, such as coffee and wine, and avoiding tobacco are strongly recommended. Foods that stimulate salivation, such as apples and apricots, can help fight plaque.  

Careful oral hygiene is also important. This includes brushing twice a day, using appropriate toothpastes, flossing or interdental brushes, and an annual tartar removal at the dentist’s office. If you run out of time after lunch, chew sugarless gum for 5 minutes to help remove food and pigment from your teeth. If you drink tea or coffee, remember to rinse your mouth with a sip of water to prevent staining.   

Such a routine will not only help maintain white teeth, but will also contribute to overall oral health.