A common mistake in cleaning teeth leads to yellowing

Dr. Farak Hamid from Aesthetique Dental Center warned of a common mistake in cleaning teeth that could be the reason behind their yellowing.

Hamid said: “Before you start brushing your teeth, you should moisten your brush with water to distribute the toothpaste over all your teeth easily, which makes brushing more effective.”

He added: “When the brush bristles are wet, they become softer for the gums and teeth, which helps avoid any irritation or damage.”

Hamid also explained that brushing teeth in certain ways, without water or immediately after eating acidic foods, may make them appear less white over time. Dry brushing may seem good for getting rid of surface stains at first, but without water, the toothpaste does not distribute well, leading to dull teeth.

He continued: "Brushing your teeth immediately after eating acidic foods can erode tooth enamel, which exposes the yellow layer underneath and makes your teeth appear more yellow. Therefore, brushing your teeth in the right way and at the right time is the key to maintaining the brilliance and health of your teeth."

The acid softens the enamel, which may lead to tooth sensitivity or discoloration. So, it is best to wait some time after eating acidic foods before brushing your teeth, which will ensure that your enamel remains strong and your teeth are healthy.

You should gently brush your teeth and gums for two minutes twice daily, use products such as mouthwash or antimicrobial toothpaste to fight germs, and visit your dentist regularly to prevent dental problems and maintain oral health.