Just about everyone would prefer if their smile was a little bit whiter. There are several ways that your dentist can whiten your teeth, but it may also be nice to know what can cause your teeth to be discolored in the first place so that you can avoid having the problem entirely.
Here’s a guide to the various causes of yellow teeth and what you can do about them.
What Causes Yellow Teeth?
People can start to see their teeth turn yellow for quite a few reasons, not all of which are under their control. Genetics can play a massive factor in the color of teeth, and some people just happen to have a yellower smile than others.
However, one thing you can control is your diet, and that certainly has an effect on teeth. Dark, acidic foods are able to erode away the top layer of enamel and deposit themselves there, leading to discoloration over time. Some foods and drinks that can cause problems are:
- Coffee
- Red Wine
- Tea
- Dark Berries
- Soy Sauce
- Tomato Sauce/Paste/Puree
Finally, it’s possible that your teeth can change colors even without these foods. If you erode away the top layer of enamel, you may expose the layer of the tooth underneath, called dentin. Dentin is naturally brown, so when it peeks through the top layer of the tooth it could cause the tooth itself to look darker.
The Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry in Whitening Teeth
If you want a whiter smile, you’re in luck! There are quite a few things that your dentist can do to peel away stains or cover them up.
Teeth whitening is one of the best ways to do this. Your dentist can apply a whitening solution to your teeth, making your smile up to eight shades whiter within a single appointment! If discoloration is severe, or if it’s due to dentin, covering your teeth with a veneer or with direct bonding might be a better bet.
Whichever route you choose, you should know that you won’t have to live with a dingy smile; no matter the color of your teeth, your dentist can make them shine!
About Our Practice
At Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, we want our patients to know that they’re special to us. That’s why our expert dental team with work their hardest to make you feel comfortable and cared for from the moment you walk into our office. Our Dr. Harth and Dr. Townsend also work incredibly hard to continue their dental education for the benefit of our patients.
If you have any questions about yellow teeth, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (904) 285-7711.