One of the interesting information about dental health concerns those who think they brush their teeth very well. Tooth brushing, which is an indispensable step in daily care, can cause teeth to appear more yellow over time when done with the wrong technique. It is surprising that people who brush their teeth regularly, pay attention to oral care, and are even meticulous about cleaning most of the time, notice a darkening of their tooth color over the years. However, according to experts, the reason behind this situation is the erosion of the enamel layer that protects the tooth surface and the underlying dentin tissue becoming visible.
IMPORTANT WARNING FROM CEBESOY
Orthodontic Specialist Dentist Dr. Kıvanç Cebesoy drew attention to the changes in tooth color, especially after the age of forty, and emphasized that incorrect and excessive brushing does not mean better cleaning, as is thought. Cebesoy said, “The teeth of people who brush their teeth very well turn yellow after the age of forty. You’re surprised, aren’t you?” He pointed out a very common misconception with his words:. According to Cebesoy, what is decisive here is how the brushing is done rather than the frequency. Hard-bristled brushes, pressing horizontal movements, highly abrasive pastes, and the habit of brushing immediately after acidic foods and drinks can weaken the enamel surface over time.
DAMAGE OCCURS TO TOOTH ENAMEL
Enamel, located on the outermost layer of the tooth, is one of the strongest structures that protects the tooth against external factors. Despite this, the enamel layer is not a living tissue that can renew itself. Mechanical stress and acid load that occur over the years can cause thinning of this protective surface. Cebesoy describes this process as follows: “Erosion occurs on the enamel surface due to brushing. As the enamel thins, the more yellow-grayish color of the dentin inevitably begins to appear.” He explains with his words.
WRONG HABITS
Cebesoy also warns: “This picture becomes more visible, especially after the age of forty. As age progresses, there is a natural thinning of the enamel layer. When tea, coffee, cigarettes, carbonated drinks, citrus fruits, foods containing vinegar, reflux, teeth clenching and faulty brushing habits consumed over the years are added, the change in the tooth surface can accelerate. At this stage, many people think that their teeth are not cleaned enough and tend to brush harder. However, this behavior can further increase the existing wear. “Notches, cold-hot sensitivity, dulling and discoloration seen in areas close to the gum line often occur as a result of these wrong habits.”
2 MINUTES TWICE A DAY
According to Cebesoy, the aim of proper oral care is not to put pressure on the teeth, but to gently but regularly remove plaque accumulation. Cebesoy also provides the following information: “It is recommended that the toothbrush be soft-bristled, placed at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the gum line, and cleaned with small and circular movements. Brushing time of two minutes twice a day is considered sufficient. For people using electric brushes, models with a pressure sensor can reduce the habit of applying too much force. “If the bristles of the brush get crushed, spread to the side or change shape in a short time, this is a sign that too much pressure is applied to the teeth.”
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