Why Your Teeth Won’t Get Whiter

​Are you one of those individuals using whitening toothpaste or strips to make your teeth slightly brighter?

Yet after days, weeks or months have passed, the result is still quite disappointing.

Lack of results can be caused by ineffective treatment or something else affecting the treatment, perhaps your lifestyle or an underlying dental problem.

If so, you should discuss the issue with your general or cosmetic dentist.

Top Reasons Your Teeth Stay Yellow

The Australian Dental Association states several factors could slow teeth whitening treatment.

These include:

• Your diet: The foods and beverages we consume play a significant role in staining teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, and intensely pigmented foods can leave stubborn stains on tooth enamel over time.
• Age: Tooth enamel naturally wears down as we age, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. This can give the appearance of dull, discoloured teeth.
• Tobacco Use: Chewing tobacco or smoking causes teeth discolouration and worsens gum disease and tooth decay, among other oral health problems.
• Trauma: Previous dental trauma, such as injuries or accidents, can lead to changes in tooth colouration, making whitening treatments less effective.
• Genetics: Our genetic makeup can influence the thickness and colour of our tooth enamel, making some individuals more prone to yellowing or discolouration.
• Too much fluoride: While fluoride is essential for dental health, excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development can lead to enamel fluorosis, causing white or brown spots on the teeth.
• Silver tooth fillings: Amalgam fillings contain silver, which can cause surrounding tooth enamel to darken over time, creating a noticeable contrast between the filling and the natural tooth.
• Medicines: Certain medicines can cause intrinsic teeth staining, making them resistant to traditional whitening methods.

Teeth are also easily stained when you consume certain foods and beverages, including wine, coffee, and tea.

These contain a strong staining pigment that lingers on the surfaces of your teeth. This form of external staining doesn’t affect the inner colour of your teeth.

Understanding these underlying factors is crucial for tailoring an effective whitening strategy and addressing any underlying dental issues contributing to tooth discolouration.

How Teeth Whitening Works?

Teeth whitening is a prevalent cosmetic procedure. The process is simple, and with the guidance of a professional, there can be few to no side effects.

Teeth whitening products contain one of two types of bleaches: peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

These whiteners can brighten yellow teeth by breaking stains into smaller pieces, making the former colour less concentrated and leaving your teeth brighter and more dazzling.

What to Consider When Considering Whitening Treatment

Because teeth whitening won’t work on all teeth, you must discuss it with your dentist before you decide to whiten them.

This is because bleaching agents may not correct all types of tooth discolouration.

Bleaching may work well for yellow teeth. However, it may not work well with brown teeth or teeth with grey tones.

In addition, teeth whitening will not work on dental crowns, veneers, or fillings. It’s not the best option for teeth with discolouration caused by medicines or injury.

Solutions for Tooth Discolouration at Main Beach Dental

If you have trouble whitening your teeth, leave it to the professional.

At Main Beach Dental, we can recommend which whitening treatment is best for your dull smile.

Your Main Beach dentist can suggest professional teeth whitening (at home or in-office) or other cosmetic dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers, to correct any discolouration you may have.

We only use the best whitening systems available, and they are entirely safe for your teeth and gums.

Tips for Preventing Tooth Discolouration

While achieving whiter teeth is undoubtedly a goal, prevention is critical to maintaining long-lasting results.

Here are some simple yet effective tips for preventing tooth discolouration:

Practise Good Oral Hygiene:

• Brush your teeth at least two times a day.
• Floss daily.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash as a rinse to remove plaque and stop discolouration.

Watch Your Diet: Limit consumption of staining foods and beverages, and when indulging, rinse your mouth with water afterwards to minimise staining.

Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider giving up to avoid more stains and to enhance your general dental health.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule routine professional dental cleanings and check-ups to remove surface stains and detect any early signs of tooth discolouration or dental issues.

Implementing these routines into your daily life can make your smile healthier and brighter for years.

Take Action Towards a Brighter Smile with Teeth Whitening in Main Beach

Don’t let yellowing teeth dim your confidence. Reclaim your smile and embrace a brighter, more vibrant future today!

At Main Beach Dental, we aim to make quality dental care affordable. We encourage you to take advantage of our latest offers.

Claim your FREE Consultation for a Smile Makeover. You are just one step away from having the smile you always wanted! Book your appointment online or call us today at (07) 5503 1177.

Visit us at 11/26-30 Tedder Ave in Main Beach.

Don’t let discoloured teeth hold you back any longer!