Yellow teeth are not as uncommon as you may think. Ever thought: Why are my teeth not white like the ones on TV?” Don’t worry. You are not alone! The question of many people is whether it is normal to have yellow teeth or not, or whether something is wrong. The positive thing is that yellow teeth are generally not at all uncommon. So, let’s explain it in a simple and fun way to make sure you know exactly what’s happening in your mouth.
Are yellow teeth normal, or is it a sign of poor oral health?
Yes, it’s normal to have yellow teeth! Teeth are not white of course. They are also white, cream or light yellow, like people have different skin color. Don’t assume that something is wrong because it is a little yellow. However, the appearance of sudden extreme yellow, brown, or spotting of teeth is a reason to see a dentist and examine the condition of your teeth.
Natural Tooth Color and When Yellowing May Be a Concern
Each tooth is individually coloured and is not usually white. This color is derived from the color found in the inside of the tooth. Minor yellowing is a normal condition – don’t worry. If the color shifts rapidly, does not appear uniform or is accompanied by pain, however, it could be a more serious issue and should be examined by a dental professional.
What causes teeth to become yellow?
Over time, teeth can become yellow due to many of the things we do every day. This occurs gradually and might not be noticed. It’s an everyday occurrence and virtually everyone experiences it some day. Here are the largest explanation why teeth might look yellow again.
Other common causes include:
- Aging – teeth get darker with age.
- Teeth are easily stained by food, particularly berries, sauces and curry.
- Drinks – coffee, tea and soda are significant staining offenders.
- Tobacco – smoking or chewing tobacco causes yellow and brown stains
- Plaque – the accumulation on the teeth can cause stains to be trapped and make your smile look dull.
How can teeth become yellow when they are healthy?
Have a fun fact: You can have healthy teeth that are still yellow! Many people are surprised at this. Your teeth are not a solid color throughout. They are layered and one of their layers is yellow. Even with the best brushing practices, some tooth yellowing is a natural part of a healthy strong tooth.
Enamel thickness and the natural color of dentin.
Teeth have a surface (enamel) that is a little translucent. It is surrounded by a yellow layer called dentin. Thin enamel will allow more of the yellow dentin to show through, thus creating a more yellow appearance of the teeth. The thicker the enamel, the more dentin will be hidden. Teeth are constructed like this and it isn’t necessarily an indication of poor health.
Can yellow teeth be whitened safely?
Yes, there are some safe things that can be done to whiten teeth that are yellow, in many cases. Everyone’s teeth are unique and best spoken with a licensed dental care specialist prior to beginning any treatment. A dentist can examine your smile and tell you the safest and best route just for you.
At-home teeth whitening solutions
- There are three types of professional whitening, at-home whitening, and what to expect.
- Professional Whitening – In-office with dentist treatment for safer, faster whitening.
- Self-guided at home solution – trays or strips supervised by your dentist
- Expectations – will depend on the cause of staining and individual.
- Follow-up care – good habits can help the results stay longer
Does Baking Soda Whiten Teeth? You’ve heard how baking soda can help whiten your teeth. It’s a very popular home tip! Baking soda is slightly rough and will lightly buff off some superficial stains. But it is different than the professional treatments and should not be used in place of a dentist’s advice. Real lasting results are always best achieved by consulting with a dental expert first.
Transform Your Smile with Our Cosmetic Dentistry!
Get the Smile You've Always Dreamed Of!
- Brilliant Teeth Whitening
- Flawless Veneers
- Seamless Bonding
- Cracked Tooth Restoration
- Perfect Gum Repair
Conclusion
Every smile is unique and so are the causes of yellowing at LiT Dental in McKinney, TX. So we provide you a complete cosmetic and restorative dentistry package to help you feel good about yourself, such as teeth whitening, veneers, tooth fillings, dental crowns, and other cosmetic dentistry treatments. Our licensed dental experts take the time to examine your smile and help you choose the one that will be most suitable for you.
It’s not a big deal if your teeth turn a shade of yellow. They’re just an integral part of the human experience. When in doubt, if you feel concerned or simply need a smile, our friendly staff at LiT Dental is here to help! Just a little of the right kind of advice can make a big difference in a smile you’ll love.
