Some assume that a yellow smile is mostly due to lack of daily brushing. While the habit influences how your teeth look, it’s not the only thing that can affect the color of your pearly whites. In fact, even those who brush and floss their teeth regularly still find themselves with stained or discolored teeth.
Teeth-Staining Foods
Scott W. Grant, DMD and other Meridian dental care experts note that daily brushing is not enough to change to color your teeth. This is especially true if you regularly consume teeth-staining foods like coffee, tea, or wine. Soda — even those that claim to have low sugar — can also discolor your teeth and smile. Other strainers include berries, dark condiments, and energy drinks.
Aging Process
Yellowing teeth is also part of the aging process. As you get older, the enamel or the outer surface that covers the teeth wears over time. This causes the yellow color of the dentin to shine through, giving your smile a yellowish hue. The discoloration is more intense if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Smoking
The nicotine and tar in cigarettes and tobacco make your teeth yellow. In fact, many heavy smokers complain that their choppers are almost brown after several years of smoking. Brushing alone is not enough to remove the discoloration. Quitting the habit and whitening treatments are advisable.
Genetics
It’s also possible that the cause of your yellow teeth is genetics. If your parents have a naturally yellow smile, it’s likely that your teeth will be of similar hue. You may use teeth whitening products like toothpastes and rinses, but an in-office whitening treatment produces the best results.
Certain Diseases
Medical conditions that require chemotherapy or exposure to radiation can also discolor your enamel. The same is also true if you take certain drugs for high blood pressure or antipsychotic medications. It’s best to talk to your physician to know the potential side effects of your prescribed medications.
If your teeth are not white as you want them to be, better schedule for an in-office whitening treatment. This can dramatically change the color of your teeth and make them appear whiter and healthier.
