A dentist shares why your teeth may appear yellow despite your regular brushing habits.

If you maintain excellent dental hygiene but still struggle to attain that bright white smile, this dentist could provide a solution to your concerns.

Dr Zainab Mackie explained that a lot of people who think they do a good job of caring for their oral health are actually making major mistakes.

And as a result of this, your teeth might have that dreaded yellow hue rather than that lovely white colour we all want.

To maintain a bright and healthy smile, it's important to practice regular brushing and flossing, schedule routine dental cleanings, and steer clear of foods and drinks that could cause tooth discoloration.

But what if you're already doing all of that stuff and still seem to have discolouration on your gnashers?

According to Dr. Mackie, it seems you might be unwittingly falling into one of these major pitfalls, even if you believe you possess expertise in oral health as a casual observer.

The dentist, from the US state of Michigan, shared a TikTok video responding to a concerned bloke who said he 'brushes everyday' but 'still has yellow teeth'.

She kindly offered the social media user some advice, explaining there could be a few possible reasons for this.

What are some potential reasons for having yellow teeth?

Applying excessive pressure while brushing

"Dr. Mackie mentioned that you could be applying too much pressure while brushing, which may be removing the protective white enamel."

The tough outer layer that shields our teeth from harm can gradually wear down, but using your toothbrush too vigorously can significantly accelerate this erosion.

Aggressive brushing 'can erode the tough enamel shield, letting dentin show through, making teeth appear yellow and increasing sensitivity', according to Willow Tree Dental.

Additionally, over-brushing can lead to a higher likelihood of plaque accumulation, an increased chance of cavities, and even potential tooth loss—so it's wise to ease up on your brushing routine a little.

Nutrition and way of living

Dr Mackie explained that your diet and lifestyle also has a lot to do with the colour of your teeth.

If you smoke, take specific medications, or enjoy beverages and snacks that can cause stains, your teeth may not appear as white as they once did.

"The dentist went on to explain, 'Consuming excessive amounts of soda can lead to tooth discoloration. Similarly, acidic fruit juices can also contribute to staining your teeth.'"

Pause and consider carefully before consuming anything that is brightly colored, sweet, or acidic, as it may have an impact on the health of your teeth.

What are some effective ways to prevent yellowing of teeth?

To keep a glittering smile, Dr Mackie advises avoiding over-brushing and sipping fizzy drinks and juice which can erode your enamel through a straw.

Users on social media expressed their appreciation for the expert's insights, filling the comment section with their reactions and opinions.

Someone exclaimed, "Ah, so I've been using too much pressure while brushing!"

Someone else commented:

Another person chimed in, "Enjoying the show with an entire bottle of Coke in hand."

And a fourth person added: "Alright, so what's the solution to that..."