Yellow teeth are very common and have different causes. There are simple ways to brighten your smile quickly and easily, depending on the cause of the discoloration. Remember, the best way to keep your smile sparkling is to take good care of it.
People have many reasons to whiten their teeth, including to have:
- Improved confidence
- A more attractive smile
- Healthier looking teeth
- Removal of stains, including from coffee or smoking
People also look into teeth whitening before a major event, such as a wedding.
Common Symptoms of Yellow Teeth
Beyond the obvious signs of discoloration, yellow teeth are often found alongside the following:
- Discolored or dark teeth
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Sensitive teeth
Common Causes of Yellow Teeth
While dentin, the hard, inner part of teeth, is responsible for the color of teeth as they age, stained enamel is the primary cause of yellow teeth. Possible reasons for yellow teeth include:
- Drinking tea, coffee or soda
- Eating sugary foods
- Tobacco use
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tooth erosion
- Natural aging
- Oral trauma
- Gum disease
- Daily use of certain medications
How To Stop and Prevent Yellow Teeth
By changing your lifestyle habits, you may be able to prevent yellow teeth. Reduce coffee, tea and soda intake or drink through a straw to help keep these liquids off of your teeth. If you either smoke or chew tobacco, cut back or quit to prevent tooth discoloration. In addition to these lifestyle changes, practice a healthy oral care routine including brushing your teeth and gums twice a day and flossing once a day. Having your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year will also help in yellowing, removing any excess plaque and calculus.
If lifestyle habits are not the cause of your discolored teeth, ask your dentist about tooth erosion. Tooth erosion is often due to lifestyle habits, but once the teeth are eroded, they must be fixed with restorative or cosmetic dentistry such as bonding, veneers or a crown.
Who Treats Yellow Teeth?
There are several options to whiten and brighten your smile including professional teeth whitening, bonding and veneers. Make an appointment with one of our general dentists to see which option would be the best option for you. To find a dental office near you, visit our locations page.