Have you noticed if your teeth have started to grow a bit dimmer over the years? While this may be a common condition for most people as they age, it can also be an indication of an underlying issue in your smile. Even though you can opt for cosmetic dental treatments to brighten your pearly whites, it’s essential to understand the reason they might get darker. Keep reading to learn about five common causes of yellow teeth and how your dentist can help address the issue!
#1: Overindulging in Dark-Colored Foods & Drinks
Do you enjoy drinking a warm cup of joe in the morning? Do you tend to snack on chocolate candies or blueberries? While these foods and drinks may be delicious, many of them are also the very reason your teeth may be getting discolored. Dark-colored foods not only have pigmented particles that can stain your smile, but they can also contain sugars and acids that will weaken your enamel. To blast away diet-related discoloration, consider getting professional teeth whitening.
#2: Natural Wear Throughout the Years
Tooth enamel may be the hardest material in the human body, but it isn’t indestructible. Over years of constant use, it’s natural for your teeth to wear down from eating, speaking, and living everyday life. Unfortunately, this will also make them more vulnerable to discoloration. While you can lift years of stains with professional teeth whitening, you might also consider veneers to brighten and improve the size and shape of your pearly whites.
#3: Poor At-Home Oral Hygiene
One of the main causes of yellow teeth is a lack of solid oral hygiene daily. Without brushing and flossing regularly, you can end up allowing debris, food particles, and bacteria to accumulate in your mouth. Not only can this discolor your teeth, but it can also increase your risk of decay and infection. By implementing proper cleaning habits, visiting your dentist every six months, keeping a healthy diet, and undergoing whitening treatment, you can prevent staining in your smile!
#4: Smoking or Using Tobacco
Using tobacco products is detrimental to your overall health, including the color of your smile. They typically consist of highly-pigmented particles that can soak and linger on your teeth, causing a significant amount of discoloration. You may require teeth whitening or alternative cosmetic treatment to address the issue, such as veneers.
#5: Genetics
Have you noticed any family members with dark or yellow teeth? This means the condition can be passed down through your genes. Sometimes this means that your stains will be more intrinsic, which won’t typically respond to teeth whitening. If your dental discoloration is due to your genetic condition, consider dental bonding or veneers for treatment.
Now that you know how yellow teeth can occur, you’ll be more prepared to make any changes to your diet or lifestyle to preserve your pearly whites. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry, and they’ll be happy to help you achieve a more dazzling smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Brong earned his dental degree from the University of California in San Francisco. He’s also a proud member of several groups like the American Dental Association and the Minnesota Dental Association. He offers a wide variety of comprehensive and high-quality treatments, including teeth whitening, dental bonding, and veneers. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call 507-288-1066.
