Many of us want that pearly white smile that seems to sparkle just when the light hits our teeth just right. But for most of us, no matter how many triple action toothpastes or whitening strips we use, it is something that never seems to be within reach.
Taking all these extra measures to get the perfect smile may seem like a good idea, but it turns out that it can actually be having a negative impact on your overall oral health.
However, before any of us resign ourselves to accepting that we will forever have a yellow hue on our teeth, Dr Zainab Mackie has graced social media with her key tips on how we can take a step closer to getting that glistening smile.
In response to a man who was concerned that his teeth were still yellow despite brushing them every day, Dr Mackie posted a TikTok video sharing her oral hygiene knowledge.
The Michigan-based dentist said that there is one sin that many people do that will actually be causing more harm to their teeth than good, the Express reports.
In the video, Dr Mackie said: “You might be brushing too hard, stripping away that white enamel.” Who would’ve thought that being too rigorous with your brushing technique could actually result in damage?
This is because being too enthusiastic with your teeth brushing can erode the hard outer layer of your teeth, which is what coats them and protects them from damage. If this is worn off, you will end up spoiling your teeth while also exposing the dentin layer underneath – which is a yellow-brown colour.
The cardinal sin that is keeping your teeth yellow is your diet and exercise, says Dr Mackie. Things like smoking, drinking fizzy drinks and certain snacks are all going to have a negative impact on the colour of your teeth.
Some medications can also cause your teeth to turn yellow, including blood pressure medications, antibiotics and antihistamines. Dr Mackie said: “If you drink too much pop, that’s going to stain your teeth.” She added: “Acidic fruit juices are definitely a teeth stainer.”
Fortunately there are simple ways to try and avoid yellowing your teeth further, such as using a straw when drinking coffee or fizzy drinks in order to protect the enamel on your teeth.
TikTok users have flooded the comments, with one asking: “is it normal for my filling to eventually turn a little yellow over time?” Dr Mackie replied saying: “Yes they can stain over time.”
Another said: “Not me drinking orange juice literally after brushing my teeth,” which garnered the response: “Drink water right after!” A third person cried: “SO NO MORE COKE”. Dr Mackie advised to “Decrease the amount you take in or drink water right after!”
Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.