In some instances, teeth gradually become less white due to natural causes, while in others, faulty dental habits are to blame. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and suddenly wondered, “Why are my teeth yellow?” you probably want to get to the bottom of things and find a way to whiten your smile. Here are some possible reasons you have tooth discoloration and what you can do about it.
Why Do Teeth Become Yellow?
While a dentist can best explain why your teeth are not as white as you would want them to be, the following can help explain why you have teeth stains.
Aging & Genetics
The yellowing of your teeth can be the natural result of aging, particularly because your enamel slowly wears away due to chewing. This can happen despite good dental habits when yellowish dentin starts showing through thin enamel. Genetics may also play a role in early discoloration since some people are born having a very thin enamel layer.
Overall Health
Nutritional deficiencies and several medical conditions or medications can also make teeth yellow. For example, those undergoing radiation or chemotherapy may develop stained teeth because of chemical reactions taking place in the body. Prescription antibiotics like doxycycline and those for high blood pressure can also lead to yellow teeth.
Lifestyle Habits
Smoking and tobacco chewing are among the top causes of staining because teeth can easily absorb nicotine and tar. When it comes to foods and beverages, those high in chemicals called tannins are more likely to make teeth yellow, such as cola, red wine, coffee, tea, berries, and soy sauce. When these and other colored food and drinks stick on your teeth and get into the enamel, long-term discoloration can occur.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Without diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and food stains can build up and make teeth yellow. Missing your regular dental appointments can worsen discoloration since you skip out on professional dental cleaning. Note that too much fluoride exposure can cause fluorosis and give rise to yellow stains.
How to Get Rid of Yellow Teeth
Many treatment options and remedies are available if you want a whiter smile. However, remember to ask your dentist, “Why are my teeth yellow?” at the earliest opportunity and discuss any whitening method you wish to try.
Professional Teeth Whitening
If you opt for professional teeth whitening, your dentist will apply a bleaching agent to your teeth and may use special lights to boost its effects. Your treatment can range from a single session to several visits, depending on your teeth’s condition.
Whitening Paste
If you’re looking for natural home remedies, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide combined into a paste and applied onto the teeth may help clean stains. Alternatively, you can buy a whitening toothpaste containing these chemical compounds or other bleaching properties.
Whitening Gels and Strips
There are also whitening gels and strips you can purchase over the counter that may effectively whiten your teeth by a shade or two after only a few days. The whitening process generally involves applying a thin peroxide gel layer on plastic strips and fitting them onto your tooth surface.
Smile Brighter with Showtime Smiles
Don’t forget that keeping up with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential to maintaining your pearly whites and preventing the return of yellow teeth due to plaque and tartar deposits.
Get the sparkling and confident smile you’ve always wanted. Learn more about how to get rid of yellow teeth from a certified health practitioner. Call Showtime Smiles to book your appointment today.
