ASK THE DENTIST: Why Are My Teeth Yellow Even Though I Brush? (Part 2: Treatment and Prevention)

 

If you read last month's article, you'll know that yellow teeth can have several causes, from natural tooth colour and ageing to stains and tartar. In Part 2, let's look at how professional cleaning and teeth whitening can help brighten your smile.

Does professional cleaning whiten yellow teeth?

Professional cleaning removes plaque, tartar and some surface stains, so your teeth may look cleaner or brighter afterwards. However, cleaning does not change the natural colour of the teeth the way teeth whitening can. If your teeth remain yellow after cleaning, your dentist can assess the cause and discuss whether whitening is appropriate.

Can yellow teeth be whitened?

It depends on what is causing the discolouration. Your dentist can assess whether professional cleaning, polishing or teeth whitening may be suitable for you.

How can I prevent my teeth from becoming more yellow?

A few simple habits can help maintain your teeth and minimise staining:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss your teeth daily
• Limit frequent consumption of staining foods and drinks
• Avoid tobacco products
• Maintain bi-annual dental check-ups and professional cleanings

Remember, yellowish teeth don't necessarily mean unhealthy teeth. It is best to have them checked by a dental professional. A brighter smile starts with understanding why your teeth look yellow, not simply brushing harder.

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Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute and Clinical Teacher at the GKT Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. He also enjoys seeing children.

www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883

Take a closer look into the world of Early Years at CIS

Ever wondered what your little one’s day might look like at the Canadian International School (CIS)? Bring them along for a taster morning at our Early Years Open House on Saturday 10 October and take a closer look at how learning happens through curiosity, creativity and play for ages 2 to 5 years old.

From exploring every corner of the 2,400sqm Outdoor Discovery Centre to picking up new languages and taking the lead in their own trilingual performances, there’s far more to Early Years at CIS than meets the eye.

Mud kitchens, water play and the early maths and science behind them

As children pour, mix, measure, predict and experiment in the Mud Kitchen, they are exploring concepts such as volume, mass, capacity and measurement. Through our Early Years framework, children build these foundations through hands-on experiences, alongside literacy, phonics, storytelling and guided and independent writing.

Stories, songs and the bi-cultural thinking behind language learning

As children move between English, French and Chinese, they learn different stories, traditions and perspectives. They develop the flexibility to approach questions in different ways, build connections across cultures and develop a unique global perspective.

Costumes, choreography and the creative thinking behind the performance

Through the Arts, students research, create characters, write songs, choreograph dances, design costumes and build sets and props. They are encouraged to try out their ideas, see what works, learn from what doesn’t and have another go, building creativity, problem-solving and resilience along the way.

Take a closer look at CIS Early Years

Join our Early Years Open House on Saturday 10 October from 9am to 12pm. There will be teacher-led activities for children, principal coffee chats for parents, and a chance to explore our purpose-built Early Years facilities.

Come take a closer look! Register now to secure your spot.

ASK THE DENTIST: Why Are My Teeth Yellow Even Though I Brush? (Part 1: Understanding the Causes)

Understanding the Causes Teeth can look yellow even if you brush twice a day because tooth colour is influenced by more than plaque. Natural dentine colour, thinning enamel, food and drink stains, tartar, ageing and other types of discolouration can all make teeth appear more yellow. Brushing keeps teeth clean, but it does not necessarily make them whiter.

Are yellow teeth normal?

Teeth are not naturally pure white. Beneath the outer layer of enamel is dentine, which is naturally yellowish. As enamel thins with age, more dentine can show through.

Can coffee, tea and food make teeth yellow?

Certain foods and drinks can gradually stain the surface of your teeth, including:

• Coffee and tea

• Red wine

• Curry and other strongly coloured foods

• Soft drinks

• Tobacco products Brushing helps remove plaque, but it may not completely remove deeper or stubborn surface stains.

Can tartar make teeth look yellow?

Plaque that isn't removed thoroughly can harden into tartar, which can appear yellow or brown. Once plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), brushing alone can't remove it. A dentist can remove these deposits with professional scaling.

Can brushing too hard make teeth look more yellow?

More pressure doesn't mean cleaner teeth. Brushing too aggressively can gradually wear down enamel, potentially making the yellowish dentine underneath more visible. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle technique is generally recommended.

Do teeth naturally become more yellow with age?

Yes, teeth can naturally appear more yellow as we age. Over time, the outer enamel can gradually become thinner, allowing more of the naturally yellowish dentine underneath to show through. Years of exposure to staining foods and drinks can also contribute to a yellower appearance.
Stay tuned for Part 2 next month, where I will share how you can brighten yellow teeth and simple ways to prevent further staining.

Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group® . He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute and Clinical Teacher at the GKT Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. He also enjoys seeing children. www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883 

Canadian International School takes Sport to the next level

Every athlete has a starting point. For some, it is the first time they step onto a court, field or into a pool; for others, it is the moment they decide to compete at a higher level. At Canadian InternationalSchool (CIS), the new Academy of Sport is designed to support that progression, giving every student the opportunity to participate, compete, and discover their fullest potential.

More than 1,200 student athletes currently take part in competitive sports across over 80 teams, with opportunities in football, rugby, basketball, track, volleyball, swimming, badminton, athletics, netball and ultimate frisbee, alongside emerging sports such as padel.

Training with an Olympian

Led by two-time Olympian Alexander Tikhonov, CIS offers a structured swim programme for every level, from beginners through to elite training. Performance swimmers train up to seven days a week, with access to strength and conditioning, nutrition and recovery support, as well as opportunities to compete at travel meets and international events.

Built for the next level

For students who are serious about their sport, the difference at CIS is in the depth of support. Students can access expert coaching, personalised athletic development and performance support, while athletic scholarships recognise talented athletes and give them opportunities to develop further. Academic flexibility through Advanced Placement (AP) courses and pathways can also help students balance demanding training and competition schedules with rigorous academic study.

See the Academy in action

Experience the Academy of Sport for yourself at Friday Night Lights on Friday 18 September, from 3.45pm to 7pm. Watch Alexander Tikhonov take on the swim team in a relay, see the Huskies compete across multiple sports and enjoy performances from the CIS Academy of Music while enjoying food.

Reserveyour spot for Friday Night Lights and discover the Academy of Sport in action.