We often associate yellow and stained teeth with uncleanliness, but what if you have yellow teeth despite keeping a strict brushing and flossing schedule? There are actually quite a few reasons why you may be getting yellow teeth. Here are the most common causes:
1. Diet
Acidic foods are known for promoting stains because they wear down enamel. Moreover, when bacteria on your teeth feed on the sugars and starches on the surface of your teeth, they release even more acid in your mouth. So foods like citrus, berries, and candy, and drinks like soda, coffee, and alcohol can all contribute to stained teeth.
2. Genetics
Unfortunately, your yellow teeth may be due to genetics. If your family members have yellow teeth for no apparent reason, your tooth color may simply be hereditary.
3. Weak Enamel
If you have yellow teeth despite maintaining good health, you may have weak enamel. This makes the dentin, or the layer underneath your enamel that has a naturally slightly yellow tint, appear more strongly and give your teeth a yellowed appearance. Thin enamel is caused by genetics and various lifestyle factors, such as those mentioned on this list.
4. Side Effect of Certain Medications
Some antibiotics and contraceptives can stain teeth. Talk to your doctor before discontinuing medications, though!
5. Physical Trauma
Chipped, cracked, and broken teeth have damaged enamel, thereby making it easier for them to stain.
6. Excessive Fluoride
A safe amount of fluoride is great for teeth and prevents the formation of cavities. However, too much fluoride can actually cause brown spots on your teeth! Using toothpaste with fluoride, drinking fluoridated water, and getting fluoride treatments at your dentist’s office is a perfect amount of fluoride exposure.
7. Smoking
Smoking lowers your immunity, making it harder to ward off bacteria on the surface of your teeth. Smoking has a major negative impact on your overall health, so it is best to quit smoking ASAP or avoid it entirely.
How to Fix Yellow Teeth
It’s best to identify the primary cause of your yellow teeth in order to prevent them from further discoloration and damage, but no matter the cause, there are solutions to brighten your smile. At High Point Family Dentistry, we offer three options for teeth whitening:
- Custom trays to whiten your teeth accurately in the comfort of your own home
- One-size trays for maximum affordability
- In-office whitening that can lighten your teeth up to eight shades in under an hour
There’s no reason for you to not love your smile. Our team is here to help restore your confidence and oral health. Contact us today!
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