Teeth come in a variety of shades and hues naturally; however, society attributes a bright, white smile to youth, success, and confidence. If you have yellow teeth, you probably hide your smile when talking or taking pictures. You might have tried a few OTC products to combat stains but didn’t achieve any noticeable results. That’s because all stains differ and OTC treatments don’t contain professional-grade whitening agents. You’re not out of options. Here’s what causes yellow teeth and how you can revamp your pearly whites.
Causes of Stained Teeth
Teeth change color over the years from various factors. As a result, it requires a unique approach to turn back the clock, depending on the cause of your discoloration. Although every situation is unique, the most common causes of yellow or brown teeth include:
- Genetics: Your teeth are likely to match the color of your parents’ teeth.
- Age: Enamel becomes thinner over time, causing more of your yellowish dentin to be visible.
- Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to tartar and plaque buildup, as well as stains.
- Smoking: Tar and nicotine can stain your enamel.
- Diet: Frequently consuming darkly pigmented foods and drinks can stain your enamel.
Treating Yellow Teeth
If you want a brighter smile, stop throwing money away on OTC products. Here’s how you can achieve the stunning smile you desire:
- Improve Your Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean will prevent buildup and staining while boosting your dental health. Commit to brushing your teeth at least twice daily and floss nightly.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Besides caring for your smile at home, schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months.
- Get Professional Help: A cosmetic dentist will identify the source of your discoloration to create a personalized treatment plan, like teeth whitening. You can get your smile up to 8 shades whiter in 1 appointment with an in-office system. As an alternative, you can achieve in-office results without leaving your house using a take-home kit. Your dentist will give you everything you need to restore your smile at home. If you’re interested in longer-lasting results or correcting other imperfections, ask your dentist about the benefits of veneers.
- Watch What You Eat/Drink: Limit your consumption of dark-colored foods and drinks. If you can’t resist a cup of coffee or tea, drink it through a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after having any foods or drinks that may stain your teeth.
You don’t have to hide your smile. Your cosmetic dentist has the solutions you need to create a radiant smile you’ll be proud to show off.
About Dr. Spiro Saati
Dr. Saati earned his dental degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and regularly continues his education in advanced treatments, like periodontology, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. He combines the art and science of dentistry to help each patient achieve their best smile. If you are ready for a whiter smile, contact our office today to request your consultation.