Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Are you battling yellow teeth despite a diligent brushing routine? We understand how you feel – it’s like running in a race you can never win. But don’t worry! There’s more to the mystery of tooth discoloration than meets the eye, and we’re here to unravel it.
At Clearwater Dentistry, we can help you achieve the radiant smile you have always desired. But before we explain how we can help, let’s dive into the causes of yellow teeth and how you can prevent them.
Call us at (970) 515-3550 for more information on our services to help battle yellow teeth.
Table of Contents
- Types of Tooth Stains
- What Causes Yellow Teeth?
- Tips To Prevent Yellow Teeth
- Treating Yellow Teeth
- Teeth Whitening in Greeley, CO
- FAQ
Types of Tooth Stains
Two types of staining, extrinsic and intrinsic, can affect the whiteness of your teeth.
Extrinsic stains are surface stains found on the outer layer (enamel) of your teeth. They can be addressed through regular brushing, professional teeth cleaning, and whitening treatments.
Intrinsic stains occur on the inner structure, or dentin, of your teeth. Intrinsic staining can be more challenging and often requires professional dental treatments.
Key Takeaway
Yellow teeth are caused by various factors, such as diet, genetics, age, tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene. Regular dental cleaning and whitening treatments can significantly improve discolored teeth. Maintain good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly for checkups to keep your teeth healthy and white.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
Several factors can contribute to the yellowing of teeth. Some of these factors are beyond our control, while others can be managed with changes in lifestyle and habits.
Diet
What we eat and drink plays a significant role in the color of our teeth. Dark-colored drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda contain chromogens, pigments that can attach to the enamel and cause discoloration over time. Acidic foods such as citrus fruits and vinegar-based salad dressings can also erode tooth enamel, making it easier for stains to penetrate and causing a yellow appearance.
Genetics
Some people are genetically predisposed to have yellower teeth than others. The color of your teeth is determined by the thickness and smoothness of your enamel, which can be inherited from your parents. Some people have thicker or more porous enamel, making them more susceptible to discoloration.
To learn more about how genetics can affect the color of your teeth, read our blog, Are Yellow Teeth Genetic?
Age
Our teeth undergo natural wear and tear as we age, making the yellow dentin layer below our enamel more visible. Additionally, as we get older, the outer layer of our enamel becomes thinner, making it easier for stains to penetrate, causing a yellow appearance.
Tobacco Use
Smoking cigarettes and using tobacco products can lead to yellowed teeth. Nicotine and tar are the main culprits, building up on teeth surfaces and causing discoloration over time. Vaping, often seen as a healthier option, also discolors teeth due to nicotine and chemicals in e-liquids.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque buildup on your teeth, which can cause yellowing. If plaque is not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can cause further discoloration and even gum disease.
Tips To Prevent Yellow Teeth
While some causes of yellow teeth are out of our control, there are steps you can take to prevent or minimize discoloration.
- Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic or staining food and drinks.
- Use a straw when drinking beverages that can stain.
- Quit smoking or using tobacco products.
- Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque buildup.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups
Treating Yellow Teeth
If you are wondering how to fix yellow teeth, you can do a few things to help improve your smile.
Dental Checkup and Cleaning
Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help you maintain a brighter smile. Professional dental cleanings, done twice a year, eliminate plaque and tartar buildup often missed by daily brushing. These routine visits also allow your dentist to check for any potential problems and address them before they escalate.
Whitening Treatments
At Clearwater Dentistry, we use Philips Zoom Whitening, a professional teeth whitening procedure. This treatment is highly effective and produces quick results. It involves using a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide gel and a specialized light to activate the gel.
This treatment can lighten your teeth by up to eight shades in just one appointment. A dental professional oversees everything throughout the process to ensure safety and comfort.
Phillips Zoom offers two options to suit your needs:
- In-office Zoom! Whitening: This treatment delivers fast, effective results under your dentist’s supervision, with noticeable whitening in just one session.
- Take-home whitening trays: Custom-fitted by your dentist, these trays allow you to gradually whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are an excellent option if you have stubborn intrinsic stains or want an immediate fix.
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin. They are placed on the front surface of your teeth, giving you a bright and white appearance. They are resistant to staining caused by coffee, tea, and wine, which makes them an excellent solution for individuals looking for a long-lasting solution.
Teeth Whitening in Greeley, CO
Lifestyle factors, habits, and genetics all contribute to teeth discoloration. However, it’s possible to achieve a brighter, whiter smile with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
At Clearwater Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping you improve the appearance of your smile through customized treatment. If you feel self-conscious about your yellow teeth, please do not hesitate to contact us. We provide cosmetic dentistry services, such as teeth whitening treatments and veneers, to help you attain the smile you’ve always wanted.
If you are searching for the best dentist in Greeley, CO – Trust the experts at Clearwater Dentistry! Call (970) 515-3550 to book an appointment or complete the online booking form.
FAQ
Yes, vaping can cause teeth discoloration due to nicotine and chemicals in e-liquids. Nicotine and tar build up on teeth surfaces and cause yellow stains over time.
Yes, tea can stain your teeth because of its tannin content. It is recommended to rinse with water after drinking tea or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
After whitening, your teeth may still look yellow because the treatment primarily targets surface stains, not intrinsic ones. Some teeth may not respond to whitening agents, especially if the discoloration is caused by medications or trauma. Additionally, if you continue to consume staining products like coffee, wine, or tobacco, your teeth will stain again after whitening.
If you are searching for ‘teeth whitening near me,’ contact Clearwater Dentistry.
