Yellowing Teeth

Have you ever noticed that your teeth are not as white as they used to be? If so, you are not alone. Teeth are one of the first things people notice about other people, so it's no wonder they're always looking for ways to keep them looking their best. Unfortunately, teeth can start to yellow over time, making people look older and less confident.

Let’s discuss what you should know about yellowing teeth and how to deal with them.

Causes of Yellowing Teeth

Knowing the cause is one way to prevent it from happening. There are several reasons why teeth may be yellow. Here are some of them:

1. Smoking

Smoking is one of the most common causes of yellowing teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes can stain teeth, and the smoke can also dry out the mouth, leading to further tooth discoloration.

2. Poor Dental Hygiene

If you don't brush and floss your teeth regularly, expect plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth, causing them to be yellow.

3. Certain Foods and Drinks

Foods and drinks high in acidity or chromogens can cause staining and yellowing. These include coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables.

4. Medications

Some medications, such as antibiotics and antihistamines, can cause teeth to turn yellow. In most cases, the yellowing is not permanent and will disappear once you stop taking the medication. However, in some cases, it may be necessary to have your teeth professionally cleaned or whitened to remove the staining.

5. Aging and Underlying Health Conditions

As you age, the enamel on your teeth starts to thin, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. Liver disease and certain medications can also cause your teeth to turn yellow.

6. Injuries

An injury to your teeth can cause them to discolor. When teeth are traumatized, the blood vessels in the teeth can break, causing the teeth to bleed. That can lead to the formation of hematomas, blood collections that can cause the teeth to turn yellow.

How to Prevent Teeth from Yellowing

It's no secret that teeth can turn yellow with age. But there are plenty of ways to prevent yellowing teeth and even reverse the process. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth looking their best:

1. Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the leading causes of yellowing teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes stain teeth and promote the growth of bacteria that can cause further discoloration. If you're a smoker, quitting is the best way to prevent yellowing teeth.

2. Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is the best way to prevent yellowing teeth. Plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria, which can cause teeth to turn yellow. You can remove plaque and prevent yellowing teeth by brushing and flossing regularly.

3. Use Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste can be effective in preventing yellowing teeth. Look for toothpaste that contains hydrogen peroxide or other whitening agents.

4. Rinse with Mouthwash

Mouthwash can also help prevent yellowing teeth. Look for a mouthwash that has hydrogen peroxide.

5. Avoid Staining Drinks

Drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can cause teeth to yellow. If you're trying to prevent yellowing teeth, it's best to avoid these drinks.

6. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Crunchy fruits and vegetables help scrub teeth clean and prevent yellowing. Apples, carrots, and celery are all excellent choices.

7. Use a Straw

When you drink staining drinks, use a straw to avoid contact with your teeth.

8. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental visits are essential for keeping your teeth healthy and white. Your dentist can professionally clean your teeth and help you identify any areas that may be susceptible to staining.

Following these tips can prevent yellowing teeth and keep your smile looking its best.

Conclusion

It’s vital to take measures to prevent your teeth from yellowing. This can be done by avoiding foods and drinks that stain your teeth, practicing good oral hygiene, and visiting your dentist regularly. If your teeth do become yellow, there are treatments available to help restore their whiteness. If you're concerned about your teeth becoming yellow, talk to your dentist about ways to prevent it.

Taylor Made Smiles is your trusted family and cosmetic dentist in Monroe. Our dental practice has been providing excellent dental care and treatment options to the people of Monroe, GA, for over four decades. We are dedicated to helping our patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. We offer various services, from preventive care to cosmetic dentistry. We also offer payment plans to make dental care affordable for everyone. Book a teeth whitening procedure with us.