Why Are My Teeth Yellow? | Riverside, CA Dentist

Have you ever taken a close look at yourself in the mirror and wondered when exactly did your teeth start to go yellow? If you have, then you’re not alone. Most people have done that and more often than not, they find themselves surprised that their teeth suddenly got yellow. Though, if it’s any consolation, yellow teeth is not exactly a sign of a serious medical condition.

It can, however, be disheartening to see that your teeth are no longer as bright as it once were and this can make you feel conscious and lose confidence.

Fortunately, there are things that you can do to get it back.

For starters, it would do you good to understand why your teeth are yellow so you can avoid or limit your exposure to things that may contribute to it.

• You’re getting older. As the protective white coating on our teeth known as enamel starts to fade away, as a result of both aging and years of use, they start to become more yellowish in tint. While there’s certainly nothing you can do to stop yourself from aging, you can take solace in the fact that the yellowing of teeth is part of the aging process.
• You smoke. Regular consumption or use of tobacco products can lead to staining of the teeth, among many other dental and health complications.
• You don’t take proper care of your teeth. The recommended oral care routine includes brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing at least once and rinsing mouth with mouthwash. This is all to remove plaque build-up and tartar, both of which can contribute to the discoloration of teeth, as well as other dental problems.
• You’re on medication. Antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline, among many other types of medication, can lead to the darkening of teeth in children no older than 8 years old. Other types of medication that can have the same effect are certain antihistamines, high blood and antipsychotic medications. Make sure that before you start taking any type of medication, you know all of its possible side effects.
• You’re sick. Though less common, certain diseases can lead to the discoloration and yellowing of teeth. The same goes for certain types of treatment, such as chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment can cause the teeth to become more brownish in color.
• You’re genetically inclined to have yellower teeth. It is also possible that you inherited enamel that’s much more yellow than that of other people.

While tooth discoloration is mainly a cosmetic problem, it is possible that it may have been caused by underlying dental and medical complications.

If you want to have whiter teeth, it is best to consult your dentist immediately to rule out possible medical causes. Your dentist can also give you proper advice on what products to use to help whiten your teeth safely and effectively. Or, if need be, recommend certain cosmetic procedures that can help restore your smile, as well as achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

If you would like to say farewell to your yellow teeth with the help of modern dentistry, contact Dr. Gerald Middleton, DDS in Riverside, CA at 9(951) 470-3379 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.gmdental.com to view our services that can brighten your smile.

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