Society views a bright smile with youth, confidence, and success; however, teeth come in many shades and tones. Not to mention, they change color over time. If you’re embarrassed by yellow teeth, you don’t have to hide your smile. Here are the most common causes of stained teeth and how you can combat discoloration.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
Did you know that not all stains are the same? Some originate from the tooth structure, giving it a grayish appearance. Brown and yellow often indicate surface stains, which can be caused by various issues, including:
- Genetics: Your teeth are likely to be similar to the color of your parents’ teeth.
- Age: Enamel erosion from daily wear and tear can cause more of your yellowish dentin to be visible.
- Oral Hygiene: Poor brushing and flossing habits can lead to discoloration and tartar buildup.
- Diet: Frequently consuming darkly pigmented foods or drinks can stain teeth, like coffee, berries, or red wine.
- Smoking: Tar and nicotine contribute to discoloration.
How to Reveal a Whiter Smile
If you have been using OTC products to reverse stains, stop throwing money away. They don’t contain professional-strength whitening agents, so any improvement will be minimal at best.
Instead, schedule a consultation with your cosmetic dentist. After examining your mouth, they’ll determine what’s behind your discoloration to create a personalized treatment plan using an effective solution, like:
Teeth Whitening
Patients interested in treating surface stains with healthy teeth and gums can benefit from a whitening treatment. A highly concentrated whitening agent can get your teeth up to 8 shades brighter. Your results can last for several months to years, depending on your aftercare routine. If your dazzling smile begins to fade, your dentist can provide you with a touchup kit.
Veneers
If discoloration isn’t your only concern, or you’re not a candidate for teeth whitening, veneers may be an option. Thin shells are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth to hide multiple imperfections, like stains, chips, or gaps. Your smile can stay bright and beautiful for a decade or longer with the right maintenance.
Protecting Your Pearly Whites
You can take several steps to prevent yellow teeth, including:
- Brush, floss, and use a daily mouthrinse.
- Schedule a cleaning and checkup every 6 months.
- Stop smoking.
- Limit how often you have darkly pigmented foods and drinks.
- Drink dark beverages through a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking if you can’t get to your toothbrush.
Don’t let anxiety about yellow teeth prevent you from feeling your best. Ask your dentist about your options for a vibrant smile.
About Dr. Kathy LamDr. Lam earned her dental degree at Howard University College of Dentistry and completed her residency at Waterbury Hospital Health Center in Connecticut. She regularly pursues continuing education to provide advanced services, like cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lam creates personalized strategies for each patient to achieve their best smile. Contact our office today to request your consultation for a whiter smile.