Take a close look at your teeth in the mirror. Do they look yellower than you remember? This type of discoloration is all too common, and it often happens gradually over time without you realizing it. If you want to achieve a more dazzling smile, then it’s essential to learn more about what can cause teeth to look yellow, as well as how cosmetic dentistry can help brighten them again.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
There can be more than one explanation for why your teeth look yellower than you would like. Here are a few particularly common culprits:
- Certain Foods and Beverages: Plenty of dark-colored foods and beverages – such as blueberries, tomato sauce, coffee, and tea – are high in tannins, which can ultimately lead to discoloration of the teeth.
- Smoking: Cigarettes can easily leave stains on your teeth because they contain tar (which is dark-colored) and nicotine (which turns yellow when it is exposed to oxygen).
- Poor Oral Hygiene: It’s possible for teeth to become discolored due to failing to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day.
- Certain Medications: Yellow teeth can be a side effect of certain medications, such as those used to treat asthma or high blood pressure.
- Aging: Sometimes, yellow teeth are just a result of the passage of time. The enamel protecting your teeth tends to become thinner as you grow older; this makes the underlying dentin layer more visible.
What Can You Do About Yellow Teeth?
If you are bothered by the impact that yellow teeth have on your appearance, you can talk to your dentist to see if they have a solution. In many cases, it is possible to improve the color of a yellow smile with professional teeth whitening.
There are two main forms of professional teeth whitening: in-office treatments and take-home kits. An in-office whitening treatment can be completed in just one hour, and it’s often a great choice for those who want to prepare their smiles for an upcoming event. On the other hand, if you don’t mind waiting a couple of weeks to see results, it may be worth considering a professional whitening kit so that you can brighten your smile in the comfort of your own home.
Of course, teeth whitening is more effective for some patients than others. Your dentist will need to consider the underlying cause and extent of your discoloration before determining whether the treatment is right for you.
Yellow teeth can be embarrassing, but you don’t necessarily have to force yourself to live with this cosmetic issue. Talk to your dentist today to find out what steps you can take to help your smile look its best.
About the Author
Dr. Manpreet Dhaliwal is a graduate of the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. He is proud to be able to provide his friends and neighbors with the high-quality dental care they deserve. For patients with yellow or otherwise discolored teeth, he offers take-home and in-office whitening options. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Dhaliwal at Complete Dental Care of Renton, visit his website or call (425) 226-5940.