Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s essential to keep your teeth looking their best. One of the things that can get in the way of your confidence is yellow teeth. But it’s not something you have to live with forever.
Today, let’s explore what you can do to fix yellow teeth and prevent it. Here’s what you need to know:
What Causes Teeth to Yellow?
Teeth can be yellow for a number of reasons. The most common cause is simple aging. Our teeth naturally become more yellow over time. Other causes of yellow teeth include staining from food and drink, smoking, certain medications, and even certain medical conditions.
Aging
The enamel on our teeth gets thinner the older we get. This allows the dentin, the yellowish layer beneath the enamel, to show through. The enamel can also become worn down from years of brushing and other wear and tear.
Food and Drink
Certain foods and drinks can cause staining on our teeth. Coffee, tea, and red wine are some of the most common culprits. Other foods that can cause staining include soy sauce, curry, and berries.
Smoking
Smoking is another major cause of yellow teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes can cause staining and also contribute to the yellowing of teeth.
Certain Medications
Certain medications can cause teeth to turn yellow. These include tetracycline antibiotics, which are often given to children. Other medications that can cause yellowing to have antipsychotics, high blood pressure medications, and chemotherapy drugs.
Medical Conditions
There are a few medical conditions that can cause teeth to turn yellow. One is called jaundice, which is a condition that causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. Another is renal failure, which can also cause a yellowing of the teeth.
How to Fix Yellow Teeth
1. Brush and floss regularly
This one is a no-brainer. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is the best way to prevent yellowing in the first place. Flossing once a day is also important to remove plaque and bacteria between your teeth.
2. Use whitening toothpaste
Plenty of whitening toothpastes on the market can help remove surface stains and give your teeth a brighter appearance. Look for a toothpaste that contains hydrogen peroxide or baking soda, and use it in place of your regular toothpaste a few times a week.
3. Try oil pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice involving swishing oil around your mouth for 20 minutes to remove toxins. There is some evidence to suggest that oil pulling can help to remove surface stains from teeth.
4. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables is a great way to whiten your teeth naturally. The abrasive action of biting into these foods helps to remove surface stains, and the high water content helps to keep your mouth hydrated and healthy. Some great options to try include apples, celery, and carrots.
5. Avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth
Some foods and drinks are more likely to cause staining than others. Try to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables.
The Bottom Line
Over time teeth get stained and yellowed. Many things can cause this, including smoking, drinking coffee or tea, and not brushing your teeth regularly.
Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to get your teeth to look white and bright again. Make sure to consult with your dentist today to explore your options.
If you are looking for a safe and reliable dental clinic, we can help you! We at Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry offer a wide range of dental and cosmetic dentistry services. Our goal is to improve your oral health and aesthetics. Contact us today to learn more. Book an appointment online now!