H
aving yellow teeth might not be unhealthy, but thanks to toothpaste commercials, if it’s not sparkling, we start to get uncomfortable with our grins. I speak for almost everyone who has been jested for having discolored teeth. For some, it’s genetic (yes, our folks have them too). It could also be good ol’ aging and wearing out of the enamel. The truth is, as we age, the outer layer of enamel on our teeth wears away, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath which can make teeth appear yellow. Not everyone minds having yellow teeth, but if you do, there are ways to prevent, delay, and treat discolored teeth.
Yellow teeth can also be caused by not regularly brushing and flossing. This can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause teeth to appear yellow. Then there is consuming certain foods and beverages, like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits that can stain the enamel of the teeth over time, leading to discoloration. Most smokers can also end up with discolored dentition because smoking or chewing tobacco can stain teeth and cause them to turn yellow, brown, or appear rotten. In addition, medical conditions or medications can cause changes in tooth color. For example, treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy can discolor teeth.
Check out proven tips to prevent or reduce yellow teeth…
A popular saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure.” Truer words have not been said when it comes to oral health. Here are some effective tips to prevent and reduce yellow teeth:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss daily.
- We know you love your regular cup of coffee because it keeps you active and sane, but limit the consumption of staining foods and drinks, or rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.
- Another tip to quit is smoking as puffing is sure to stain your teeth.
- Visiting the dentist may not be your favorite activity, but if you don’t want yellow teeth knocking on your door, book that appointment. And do it regularly.
Here are some treatment options for yellow teeth to consider
- Whiten it: Professional teeth whitening treatments, performed by a dentist, are one of the most effective ways to lighten yellow teeth. These treatments typically involve using a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrates the enamel to break up stains. In-office treatments can produce noticeable results in a single session, while take-home kits prescribed by a dentist may take longer to achieve the desired results.
- Over-the-counter options: There are also various over-the-counter whitening products available, such as whitening toothpaste, strips, gels, and trays, which can help lighten surface stains on yellow teeth. While these products may produce modest results, they are generally less effective than professional treatments and may take longer to achieve noticeable whitening.
- Dental veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can effectively cover up discoloration and other cosmetic imperfections, providing a long-lasting solution for yellow teeth. However, they require the removal of a small amount of enamel from the teeth and are a more invasive and costly option compared to whitening treatments.
- Composite bonding: Composite bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. This technique can be used to cover up stains, chips, cracks, and gaps in the teeth, providing a more affordable alternative to dental veneers.
It’s important to consult with a dentist to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your yellow teeth and to ensure safe and effective results. They can assess the cause of your yellow teeth and recommend the best course use of action to achieve a brighter, whiter smile.
Featured image: Camila Aguiar/Pexels
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