Yellow teeth can be a source of embarrassment and even low self-esteem. It not only affects how you feel about your smile, but it can also damage your confidence in social situations. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to treat yellow teeth and restore your smile.
What Can Cause Yellow Teeth?
Yellow teeth can be a source of embarrassment, but it may not be as difficult to fix as you think. There are a few major causes of yellow teeth, and understanding what’s causing yours can help you take steps to get your teeth back to their natural white.
Frequent Consumption of Stain-Causing Foods and Beverages
One of the most common causes of yellow teeth is the frequent consumption of foods and beverages that can stain teeth. Coffee, red wine, dark-colored sodas, and tea are all very common culprits. Even natural foods like blueberries, cherries, and beets can cause discoloration. The darker the food or beverage, the more likely it is to stain your teeth.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking cigarettes and using other forms of tobacco can also cause yellow teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco all contribute to discoloration. The more you smoke, the more likely it is that your teeth will turn yellow.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Another cause of yellow teeth is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth and cause discoloration. Plaque is a sticky substance that forms when bacteria and food particles combine in your mouth. If it’s not removed on a regular basis, plaque can harden into tartar, which can be even more difficult to remove.
Age
Age is another factor that can cause yellow teeth. As you get older, the enamel on your teeth wears away, exposing the dentin, which is a yellowish substance that lies beneath the enamel. This is why many older people have yellow teeth.
Medications
Certain medications can also lead to yellow teeth. Antihistamines, antipsychotics, and high blood pressure medications are all known to cause discoloration.
Genetics
Finally, genetics can also play a role in the color of your teeth. Some people are simply born with yellow teeth, and there isn’t much they can do to change it.
How Can You Whiten Yellow Teeth?
Fortunately, there are several ways to whiten yellow teeth, ranging from professional treatments to at-home remedies that can help restore a bright, white smile.
1. Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is generally considered the most effective and safest way to whiten yellow teeth. To whiten the teeth, professional teeth whitening treatments use a special bleaching agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The bleaching agent is applied to the teeth and activated by either heat or special light, and it works to break down the stains and discoloration on the teeth.
2. Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpaste is another option to whiten yellow teeth. They contain abrasive agents that help to remove surface stains and discoloration on the teeth. Whitening toothpastes are not as effective as professional teeth whitening, but it can be a good option for those who want to maintain their white teeth between professional treatments.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help to remove surface stains and discoloration on the teeth. To use baking soda to whiten yellow teeth, mix some baking soda with water to form a paste, then brush your teeth with the paste. Baking soda can be abrasive, so it’s best to use it sparingly and follow up with fluoride toothpaste after brushing.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent used to whiten yellow teeth. To use hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, and then use it to rinse your mouth out after brushing.
Conclusion
There are various methods that can be used to whiten yellow teeth. Some methods are more effective than others, and some may be more suitable for certain individuals. It is important to consult with a dentist before undertaking any teeth whitening treatment, as some treatments may not be suitable for everyone
If you are looking for a dentist in Danvers, MA, you can visit us at Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry. Say goodbye to any oral issues that you may have with all our different treatments. Get in touch with us and book an appointment at Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry.