Why Are My Teeth Yellowish?

 By: Dr. Abbas Eftekhari D.D.S

Do you keep glancing in the mirror checking the yellowish color of your teeth, wondering why it turned out that way? Do not worry, the truth is, yellowing teeth is not always a sign of poor care. Even if you maintain good oral hygiene you can still develop yellow teeth. 

Genetics, aging, and even everyday habits like drinking coffee may be the reason for its yellowish color. Though yellow teeth are pretty common it is not something you have to live forever.  In this article, we will demystify the reasons behind yellowing teeth and explore effective solutions.

Common Causes of Yellow Teeth

To help you understand the root cause of yellow teeth, let us explore the main causes.

Genetics

Did you know that your tooth shade is something you inherit? Genetics plays a significant role in the natural color of your teeth. The natural color of the teeth varies, not all teeth hues are the same. For some, yellow-toned teeth are simply part of their DNA. You may notice that even if you maintain good oral hygiene or avoid staining foods, your teeth remain yellowish. 

Dentin & Enamel

Your teeth are made up of layers. Its yellowish color may be because of the dentin and the enamel. The dentin and the enamel are important for the color of your teeth. Dentin is the layer beneath the enamel and it has a yellow hue, on the other hand, the enamel is the hard outer layer, it is translucent in color and helps mask the dentin. Yellowish teeth may be a sign of enamel thinning. When your enamel wears down, it may expose the dentin, making your teeth appear yellowish. 

Aging

As we get older our teeth experience wear and tear. Like our hair color and skin, our teeth may also change color over time. Our aging process thins the enamel, exposing the dentin behind. Though enamel thinning is natural as we grow older, maintaining good oral hygiene and dental checkups can slow down the process.

Diet and Lifestyle Choices

Certain foods and drinks are well known for staining the teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sauces (like soy or tomato sauce) can penetrate the enamel and leave stains. Additionally, acidic foods and drinks (citrus, sodas) erode the enamel over time. If you expose your teeth regularly to these substances it will lead to yellowish teeth. 

Smoking

According to a study tobacco smoking negatively impacts dental aesthetics. Aside from tooth damage, yellow teeth are also caused by smoking.  The nicotine and tar found in cigarettes stick to the tooth’s surface and seep into the enamel causing permanent stains. Even if you’re a former smoker, the yellowing can persist unless treated with professional whitening or other dental treatments. 

Preventative Measures for Yellow Teeth

Though some factors like genetics, and aging are out of our control you can still minimize staining. Here are some tips on how to maintain your bright smile.

Brushing & Flossing Techniques

The golden rule of taking your teeth, brush and floss regularly! Brushing and flossing help remove surface stains and plaque buildup. 

Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining a bright smile. Professional cleanings help remove tartar buildup. Visiting a dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning can help you catch any early signs of enamel wear or decay that can contribute to yellowing.

Diet Adjustments

Your diet plays a huge role in the color of your teeth, but you don’t need to give up your favorite foods or drinks entirely. Make simple adjustments to minimize staining. 

• Use a straw when drinking coffee, tea, or dark-colored beverages. This can help minimize direct contact with your teeth. 
• Rinse your teeth with water after consuming staining foods. This washes away the pigments that can stain the enamel.
• Eat fiber-rich foods like crunchy foods and vegetables. Apples and carrots, act as natural toothbrushes. Their fibrous texture can help remove stains as you chew.

Whitening Treatments

There are plenty of options to choose from for a whiter teeth. In this section, we will compare over-the-counter and professional whitening treatments, as well as natural remedies. 

Natural Remedies

• Baking soda can help scrub away surface stains when used as a toothpaste. However, it only provides slight whitening benefits and will not penetrate deep enough to remove deep-seated stains.
• Swishing oil (usually coconut or sesame) in your mouth to “pull” bacteria and toxins from your teeth. While it’s thought to improve overall oral health, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for teeth whitening.

Before relying on natural remedies, it is essential to consult with a cosmetic dentist in Culver City. Some DIY methods can be too abrasive or ineffective, potentially causing damage to your enamel over time.

When to See a Dentist

Yellow teeth are not something you have to live with forever. Whether the cause is surface staining or a deeper issue like enamel erosion or bruxism, there are solutions available.

Remember, our dentist can provide a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Do not hesitate to reach out if you notice persistent yellowing or suspect that something more serious may be at play. 

To explore the best options for your bright, confident smile, contact us at United Dental Care, your trusted dentist in Culver City, California. Together, we can help you achieve that dream Hollywood pearly whites!