One of the first things others observe when you smile, or talk is the color of your teeth. A bright and white smile gives you confidence and more self-esteem. However, you may become confused or frustrated when you notice your teeth acquire a yellow appearance. Fortunately, many solutions are available to whiten yellow teeth once the cause is determined.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
There are several reasons you have yellow teeth, including:
· Dental plaque. Typically, plaque accumulates on teeth as a colorless or pale yellow, fuzzy film that may change to a darker yellow or brown appearance.
· Heredity. You may have inherited the color of your teeth from one of your parents.
· Wear. As the enamel of your teeth wears down, your teeth turn more yellow because of the yellowish color of the underlying dentin.
· Habits. Habits such as teeth grinding and chewing on nonfood substances cause wear and yellowing of teeth.
· Smoking. Nicotine causes many health problems, including tooth discoloration.
· Beverages. Coffee and tea are common reasons people have more yellow teeth.
· Dental trauma. If you bump a tooth and damage the nerve of the tooth, it can cause the tooth to turn yellow. This usually means you need a root canal treatment to save the tooth and change its color.
· Medication. Some antibiotics, when given to children, can cause their developing teeth to turn yellow.
Are Yellow Teeth Unhealthy?
We all want white teeth and may worry that yellow teeth are a sign of unhealthy teeth. It would be best to discuss these concerns with your dentist because most teeth can be whitened. However, your teeth can appear yellow and be healthy at the same time. This happens especially in people with thin enamel. Enamel gives teeth their white appearance, but the underlying yellow dentin can show through and change the color of your teeth.
How Can I Prevent Yellow Teeth?
Some causes of yellow teeth require professional treatment, but you can prevent other causes if you:
· Maintain good oral hygiene habits. The most important thing you can do at home to keep your teeth white is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once daily.
· Consume fewer foods and drinks that stain teeth. Highly acidic and pigmented foods and beverages cause surface stains and yellowing that can be difficult to remove with home care.
· Protect your enamel. Some wear of enamel takes place naturally with age. However, you can reduce this wear by eating a healthy diet, wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth, and using toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride.
· Have regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleaning. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that cause yellowing of your teeth. Regular dental exams help to ensure your enamel remains healthy and white.
What Are the Solutions for Yellow Teeth?
If home whitening products don’t give you the results you want, talk with your dentist about professional solutions to whiten your teeth. There are several options, including:
· Professional teeth whitening uses custom-made trays and a professional-strength bleaching solution for better and longer-lasting results than over-the-counter products.
· Composite dental bonding offers a low-cost, non-invasive, and easy solution to cover yellow stains on teeth.
· Porcelain veneers require the removal of a thin layer of enamel on the front of your teeth. A thin porcelain shell hides the discoloration for a long-lasting, durable, and popular way to have whiter teeth.
· Porcelain crowns require more tooth removal and are a good option for teeth that already have large fillings or cavities.
· Root canal treatments can help whiten front teeth that are yellow because of trauma.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are concerned about yellow teeth, your dentist can discuss your treatment options to whiten your teeth and brighten your smile. Call today and schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry for a comprehensive exam.