Why do I have tooth discolouration even though I care for my teeth? 

If you take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing daily but still notice tooth discolouration or a yellow appearance, you’re not alone. Discoloured teeth are a common concern that can make many people feel self-conscious about their smile.  

Tooth discolouration can happen for various reasons, which can be classified as either extrinsic or intrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains are found on the outer surface of the tooth, while intrinsic stains occur within the tooth itself.  

Reasons why your teeth may be discoloured:

Foods and drinks: Some foods and drinks can contribute to staining. Coffee, tea, red wine, cola, and fruit juices contain strong colour pigments called chromogens that can darken your tooth enamel. Plus, foods like tomato-based sauces, curries, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, berries, and beetroot can also leave their mark.   

Nutrition: What you don’t eat can also play a role. If your diet is missing important nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, it can impact the health and appearance of your teeth*. 

Environment and lifestyle: Lifestyle choices, such as smoking or vaping, can lead to yellow teeth because of the harmful substances like tar and nicotine in them.  

Stress and hormonal changes: Ongoing stress can lead to less saliva production (which helps keep your teeth healthy), increased inflammation, and overall poorer oral health, which can contribute to yellowing. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can also affect tooth colour through changes in enamel mineralisation.  

There are also several factors affecting the colour of your teeth which you may not have control over: 

• Medications and treatments like radiation therapy, chemotherapy or long-term steroid use.

• Dental trauma or injuries may cause the tooth to produce more dentin for protection, making it appear darker.

• As we get older, the protective white enamel on teeth can naturally thin out, allowing the darker dentin underneath to show through, making teeth appear darker.
• And sometimes, tooth colour is simply genetic. You might have thicker or more translucent enamel, which influences how yellow or white your teeth appear. 

Do professional cleans help to avoid tooth discolouring?

Alongside your daily dental routine, regular professional teeth cleanings by your dentist are important. Most dentists recommend having your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year combined with your regular dental check-ups, to remove plaque and tartar that brushing cannot eliminate.   

Teeth whitening

While a professional cleaning can help reduce some discolouration, teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment that can brighten your smile. Your dentist will be able to determine if teeth whitening is a suitable option for you.  

Having slightly yellow teeth doesn’t mean you’re not taking care of your oral health. If you’re concerned about the colour of your teeth or notice sudden changes, it’s best to book an appointment and speak to your dentist. They can explore the cause and recommend preventative measures, products or treatments to help reduce staining and discolouration.  

*Calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus fact sheet. Dental Health Services Victoria, dhsv.org.au