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.

Tips for Workplace Ergonomics

 By Dr David Johnson, Chiropractor

Over 60% of the workforce in Singapore works on a computer every day. Small adjustments to your work setup can prevent chronic neck, back, and wrist strain. Here is how to keep your spine neutral throughout the day:

The Ideal Desk Setup

• Monitor Height: Align the top third of your screen with your eye line. If using a laptop, plug in an external monitor and keyboard. Avoid using laptop stands.

• Elbow Angle: Keep your elbows bent slightly more than 90 degrees, resting gently on armrests with your wrists flat—not bent up or down while typing.

• Seating Position: Sit fully back in your chair so your lumbar spine is supported. Knees should be extended slightly more than 90 degrees, with legs uncrossed and feet flat on the floor.

• Ergonomic Chair: Look for one with good lumbar and neck support.

Even with the perfect sitting posture and computer setup, it is important to stand up and move around every 60 to 90 minutes. Additionally, using a standing desk to alternate between standing and sitting is a great way to avoid sitting all day.

Most importantly, listen to your body. If pain persists or returns frequently, contact Alpha Chiropractic for more information on addressing the root cause of your pain.

www.alpha-chiropractic.com 

+65 8301 6864