Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow?

Do you have yellow teeth and wonder why you have reached that point? Usually, there’s no single answer but several factors that may be responsible.

Here are some of the main reasons for getting yellow teeth:

• Eating Habits: It is well-known that our eating habits contribute to yellow teeth. You’ve probably heard this on many occasions. Statements that coffee and tobacco can stain our teeth are 100 percent accurate. Same thing with cola and red wine. Even fruits such as pomegranates or blueberries can create stains on teeth due to their high pigmentation dose. Certain spices like paprika and turmeric can also cause staining.
• Oral hygiene: It is an obvious cause but we considered it necessary to mention it. Without a doubt, not following strict, daily and constant oral hygiene can be the origin of stained and yellow teeth. And not only are we talking about something aesthetic, but the lack of cleanliness can also generate serious and painful oral problems.
• Medication: Taking certain medications may have an impact on the color of our teeth. Some antibiotics such as tetracycline cause tooth discoloration when consumed during childhood (up to approximately 7 or 8 years old). In adulthood, the medications that have the most impact when it comes to yellow teeth are antidepressants or antihistamines such as Benadryl® (diphenhydramine).

Some causes of yellow teeth are not in our hands:

• Genetics: Genetics play a fundamental role in many aspects, including our teeth. Our parents can mark the enamel characteristics and these can be decisive for the coloring of our teeth. For example, the thinner the outer enamel layer of the teeth, the more yellow our teeth will be. Interestingly, this is a case that usually affects redheads.
• Age: The passage of time is inevitable and its effects are noticeable as we grow older. Age causes gradual wear on our teeth, as well as a progressive process of dental demineralization, processes that gradually result in a loss of the original white color of the teeth. Also, as the enamel wears, it may become more rough and porous and collect more stain. It goes without saying that periodic dental check-ups can help reduce the progress of these effects, but it is inevitable that our teeth will become yellowish over the years.

Now that you know what causes yellow teeth, let your Pasadena dentist talk to you about solutions!

Today there are advanced solutions that can make your teeth shine again, and one of them is teeth whitening. So, schedule an appointment with our incredible team at Prestige Dental by calling (626) 577-2017.