What Causes Yellow Teeth? Brighten Your Smile
Our teeth are a major indicator of our oral hygiene, and they can boost or deflate the self-esteem of even the most confident people. That’s why it’s imperative that we take care of our teeth and make sure they’re cleaned daily. Even with regular homecare, some people see their teeth discolor. That frustration inevitably begs the question, “What causes yellow teeth?”
That question is one of the most common inquiries we get from people who want to know just why their teeth are turning yellow, and how they can get whiter teeth and keep them that way. That question makes it pertinent to know the causes of yellow teeth and how to prevent or whiten discolored teeth.
How Did They Get This Way?
There are many reasons why teeth become yellow or stained. These reasons range from poor oral hygiene to genetics. Some of the reasons for yellow teeth include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene
Failing to brush at least once a day can cause yellow teeth as well as other dental complications. In addition, eating sugary food or foods with high acidity can cause plaque buildup and excessive damage to the enamel of the teeth. When this happens, food pigments can easily be absorbed into the dentin, the layer next to the enamel. These stains further weaken the enamel and cause visible yellow and brownish yellow stains on the teeth.
- Foods and Drinks
One factor responsible for what causes yellow teeth is the type of food or drinks you consume daily. For instance, A person who consumes a lot of tea and coffee without taking some time to brush daily will end up with stained teeth. Red wine, white wine, dark sodas, and energy drinks with synthetic flavors can also cause yellow teeth.
Certain types of food like curry spices, berries, tomatoes, tobacco leaves, vinegar, and others have been known to contain pigments that are capable of leaving a stain on the teeth.
- Smoking
Smoking doesn’t just cause damage to the lungs: It also causes yellow teeth. The nicotine contained in cigarettes generally leaves brownish stains on the teeth surface.
- Aging
It is normal for the teeth to start turning yellow as we age. This is because the enamel, the outer surface of the teeth, wears out gradually as it’s exposed to different acids in the food and drinks consumed. As the enamel gradually erodes, the layer beneath, dentin, begins to show. The dentin isn’t white like enamel, so it causes teeth to appear discolored.
- Genetics
Tooth coloration is partially influenced by genetics. Some people have naturally colored teeth as a result of the inherent traits of the genetics in their families. Apart from white, there are generally four other shades of color that appear naturally in teeth. These include reddish yellow, reddish brown, gray, and reddish gray. These colors also vary in depth across the light spectrum ranging from light to dark.
- Excess Fluoride
Excess fluoride is bad for the teeth. Fluoride is great for teeth, but when fluoride intake becomes excessive, it can lead to Fluorosis: Yellow and brownish yellow spots appearing on the teeth. Fluoride is present in toothpaste, fluoridated water, and some other prescription drugs. It’s important to consult a dentist to ensure that your fluoride intake is not excessive.
Other causes of yellow teeth include accidents, physical trauma, and antibiotics like Tetracycline. If taken during pregnancy or before the age of eight, this antibiotic can cause permanently stained teeth.
How To Prevent Yellow Teeth
In some cases, yellow discoloration can be prevented or reversed using simple and natural ingredients found at home, some of which include:
- Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
These two ingredients, when mixed to form a paste, can help reduce the yellow coloration of teeth. A 2012 study found these two ingredients and toothpaste containing them helpful in improving teeth whiteness. A DIY paste can easily be made at home by mixing two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one tablespoon of baking soda. Any toothpaste that contains baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can also do the job.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, when used in small proportions, can help get stains off the teeth and improve teeth whiteness. But if it’s used too frequently, it can erode the enamel and damage the teeth surface. Therefore, it’s not meant for everyday use. Use sparingly, cautiously, and in small quantities.
- Vitamin C
The result of a 2007 study showed that periodontitis, caused by a buildup of bacteria on the teeth and in the gums, is worse in people with vitamin C deficiency. Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a contributing factor to discoloration of teeth as gums recede and expose the darker roots of the teeth. Vitamin C is just one small influencer of this inflammatory condition that afflicts 30% of the population. But it emphasizes that good nutrition contributes to all parts of general health, including oral wellness.
Apart from these remedies that can be used as preventive measures, other dental remedies abound which help to improve or restore teeth whiteness. Some of them include:
- Good Oral Hygiene
Almost everyone knows good homecare habits help to keep our teeth and mouth healthy and fresh. It’s good practice to brush at least twice daily. Brushing for two or three minutes each time and brushing with a quality electric brush regularly helps remove plaque and food. Flossing the teeth also helps to keep the mouth clean and free of food remnants that are stuck in the teeth and gum. In addition, teeth whitening toothpaste is also becoming more popular with people that need to know what causes yellow teeth. They won’t remove embedded stain, but they can help prevent more of it.
- Regular Dental Exam and Dental Prophy
To properly restore the natural color of your teeth, it’s important to consult a dentist. To top it off, a dental exam helps you discover the state of your oral health. One thing you can do is to see a dentist or dental hygienist regularly, at least every six months or twice a year. If your teeth are found unhealthy, a DENTAL PROPHY may be necessary. A Dental Prophy is a cleaning procedure that is done to remove large amounts of plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. And it helps to control periodontitis and gingivitis and prevent what causes yellow teeth. Furthermore, it’s often covered extremely well by dental insurance.
Just Do It!
In summary, many people what to know “What causes yellow teeth?” There are many factors, some of which can be prevented with good oral hygiene natural home remedies. Yellow teeth can also be treated professionally by dentists and then maintained with a host of recommended dental solutions. So, don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly and keep your oral health at the top of its game!
At DentalChat, we’ve got you covered. Connect online with a dentist in your area right now, in real-time!
Want to Learn More? Cosmetic Dentistry Blog: Here’s an interesting article on DentalChat about cosmetic dentistry and cosmetic dental procedures –
https://dentalchat.com/cosmetic-dentistry-procedures-and-cosmetic-dentist-chat
At DentalChat, we network with leading dental bloggers and professionals in the dental industry who may want to contribute daily blogs or articles to share with us. Online Dental Questions Blog, Local Dentist Chat Online and Ask Dentist a Dental Question with us. We innovate dentistry with real-time, online interaction between dental practices and patients. Dentalchat was founded by a dentist and includes dental professionals on our management team.
Bad Teeth Blog, Dentures or Implants
Unfortunately, there are millions of people that have teeth with large amount of caries. Many times they have not had professional dental care / have not gone to a dentist for many, many years. Sometimes, they only go for emergency dental care. We are Dentist Chatting about Bad Teeth in this Dental Blog.
Many times, these patients end up with some form of a denture – whether it is a partial denture or full mouth set of dentures. Some of these people, do want to get something better than just dentures.
Problems with Dentures –
Why do people want to get something better than just dentures – well dentures can be ill fitting and can be hard to chew with. Dentures are by nature, removable appliances – that can move in the mouth when chewing. Hence, these people with dentures can possibly be having sore spots in the mouth, etc.
Dentures Blog – Dentures and Dental Implants Information online –
Dentures over time can become loose because of jaw bone recession. One option now available, is getting dentures with dental implants. With this option, patients can have better-looking teeth and also have better retention inside the mouth. That is, the denture is attached to dental implants – hence, less movement inside the mouth and better chewing.
One thing to keep in mind – is the cost involved with getting dental implants and dentures. The cost can be much higher, depending on the number of dental implants being placed and the other gum procedures that may be involved. Can discuss with your dentist / dental office various dental treatment options. We have other Dentist Blogs to check out on DentalChat.com. Here is a Dentist Blog about Best Dental Implants
https://dentalchat.com/best-dental-implant-information-best-dental-implants-info-online
Bad Teeth Blog, Dental Implants Discussion & Denture Blogging with us at DentalChat. We are networking with dental bloggers @ Dental Chat.
In summary – we did a Dentist Blog about dentures. There are more options than ever for people with bad teeth (people with many caries). Each of these options has various price points and differing dental treatment plans.
Dental Insurance plans discussion online
We are at Dental Chat looking to discuss many dental topics – This article will be — Dental Insurance Plans Discussion Online, with us continuing this discussion in future blogs and articles on here @ DentalChat. We do appreciate our readers feedback and dental suggestions.
It is estimated that more than 70 million people in the US do not have dental insurance. Unlike medical insurance, which many more people have – Dental Insurance is not a high priority for many people. Most people have dental insurance through their job or place of employment – though, many times, the actual dental coverage is somewhat little – with many people having to pay out of pocket a large portion of various dental services.
Most dental insurance plans cover for the most part dental exam and prophy (dental cleaning) once every 6 months. This falls under preventive dental care. For crowns and dental implants, each person needs to check carefully what, if any of the cost will be covered.
- Dental Insurance Benefits Blog:
Many people get their dental insurance from the company that they work at. These companies sometimes offer various types of dental insurance policies to choose from. Good to check to see the differing Dental Benefits each dental insurance offers.
For one, dental crowns – are by many dental insurance plans only covered for 50% of the cost — with the other 50% being paid by the patient. This can vary greatly from plan to plan – even with the same dental insurance company. Hence, each person will need to check with their dental insurance to make sure. Dental implants are usually Not covered by many dental insurance companies – again, will need to check. Dental Insurances Chat online with us, discuss dental hygiene, dental services discussion and more at DentalChat. Many people have a dental question can ask us on here – we are looking to provide dental information that we expect each person to do their own due diligence & even more research on.
- Dental Insurance Plan Blog:
We discussed dental insurance plans and did dental insurance chatting online with us. We will be discussing this further in future dental blogs & dental articles here at DentalChat.com. Can be asking us Dental Questions here and more. Our goal is to better inform people about various dental care topics.
Online Dental Insurance Info Discussion, Local Dentist Chat
- Online Dental Insurance Info Discussion:
- Local Dentist Chat:
- Emergency Dental Care Chatting Online:
- Online Dental Chat:
- DentalChat:
Dentists have an interesting relationship with dental insurance companies – with some dental insurance companies better than others. Less than half the people in the US, have private dental insurance – since many small business owners usually decide on just having medical insurance – and passing on dental insurance. Also, many 1099 contractors and those whom work part-time, usually do Not have dental insurance. Dental insurance coverage with the government varies state by state. Many times few dentists are part of the state dental insurance coverage program – Why? The reason many dentists decline being part of the state dental insurance coverage plan – is that the pay per dental procedure can be very low …. sometimes the dental pay by the state to the dentist / dental office can be less than 70% of a regular fee.
There are various other forms of dental insurance coverage that have come into the public space now – for individuals and families. Also, there are more companies providing dental insurance packages, as an incentive to attract good employees.
We are discussing and having a Dental Insurance Information Discussion @ DentalChat.com. We also will be discussing various other dental issues and topics at DentalChat. We are @ DENTAL CHAT looking for great dentists and dental professionals – to add their content on here. We discuss many dental topics and not just doing dental insurance chatting – from dental implants to cosmetic dentistry on here. Here is the link to one of them.
We will be discussing Dental Insurance in more depth in future DentalChat articles and blogs.
Great time to network online with us. Online Dental Insurance Info Discussion, Local Dentist Chat, Online Dental Chat about dentistry and Emergency Dental Care Chatting Online, Dental Insurance Chat online at DentalChat. We are networking with local dentists and dental companies.
Oral Bony Growth Chat- Discussing Online Mandibular Torus
- Oral Bony Growth Chat- Discussing Online Mandibular Torus:
We @ DentalChat like to discuss many dental topics. In this Dental Blog – We will be discussion Mandibular Tori and Oral Bony Growth Chat Online. Discussing Online Mandibular Torus formation and what to do if have them. Mandibular tori because it is excess bone, will notice that it is bumpy and somewhat firm — your dentist will let you know what it is, if have any questions.
One thing is to have common sense – if notice some growth and dont know what it is? Then, can go visit a dentist or oral surgeon and get it examined.
Mandibular Tori Chatting:
Many people do not realize they have mandibular torus in mouth, until being told by a dentist or hygienist that the bone growth is unusual. When people see or realize they have Mandibular Tori or Mandibular Torus in their mouth, they can be somewhat concerned. What is Mandibular Tori or Torus? Tori is a another way or word for bone growth that is usually in the lower jaw, which is is usually non-malignant. This bone growth can be uncomfortable, though many times it is not. Usually your dentist will keep watch of it and most likely leave it alone.
Sometimes, people with Mandibular Tori or Torus may have some pain – usually because injure the area or scrape it, etc. – best then is to keep it clean and maybe get fluoride rinses and can always see a dentist to see what is the cause of the pain.
Online Sleep Apnea Chat, Online Snoring Blog
Online Sleep Apnea Chat, Online Snoring Blog
- Sleep Apnea Discussion:
- Dental Chat Online about Sleeping Topics:
Sleep Apnea Discussion / Sleep Apnea Chat online at Dental Chat: Many people snore or have Sleep Apnea – in the US the numbers are quite high. Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, have become a significant health issue in the United States. Though the numbers vary – the approximate numbers are around 22 million Americans in the US suffer from a type of Sleep Apnea. Of these, the moderate and severe form is estimated to be around 80 percent – in most cases, the severe obstructive sleep apnea is un-diagnosed, which can be not good for a person’s health.
The interesting thing is that – a large portion of people with Sleep Apnea, do NOT know they have it.
Online Snoring Blog: More men than women snore at night while sleeping – with the numbers being approximately 40 percent of men and about 20 percent of women snore. People who are obese as adults, generally are prone to Snoring at night while sleeping. Sleeping Disorders includes not only Sleep Apnea and Snoring – but also Sleep deprivation, better known as Insomnia.
TeleDentistry Chat Online – Tele-Dentistry Blogging:
One area that will be helping in sleep apnea potentially more and more is TeleDentistry. Now, with modern tele-medicine technology in dentistry – we will be able to better monitor how people sleep.
Sleep Apnea Devices Discussion – CPAP Blog: A CPAP is commonly used – Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common type of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine uses a hose and mask or nose piece that is looking to deliver constant and steady air pressure. There are several common problems with CPAP include trouble being able to sleep with it and a leaky mask. Sleep Apnea & snoring has been going on forever, though now there are ways of better dealing with it.
Local Dental Chat online with us about various dental topics. We will be discussing Insomnia more in-depth in upcoming blogs and articles – here @ DentalChat. We are looking to make people better informed about various dental care issues. DentalChat.com was founded by a dentist, that is keen on helping people get better dental care. Dental care is advancing with new tech, and we will be leading in that space. Can visit us on the home page of dentalchat.com with this link.
Oral Cancer Question / Cold Sore Blog – How do I know if have a Cold Sore?
Oral Cancer Question / Cold Sore Blog – How do I know if have a Cold Sore?
- Oral Cancer Question / Oral Cancer Blogging:
- Cold Sore Blog:
- How do I know if have a Cold Sore?
With any sores, in the oral area – a good idea is to check with your dentist or physician. Cold sores are commonly referred to as fever blisters – a Cold sore is a relatively small sized, fluid-filled ulcer(s) that appear on the lip area and somewhere around the mouth. The longevity varies, though usually they may last for a week or more. There is some pain and it can cause discomfort – also the crusty appearance of cold sores can appear, which may not look good. Using Antiviral medications when believe a cold sore is on setting can help a lot. These meds are only available with a prescription. Cold sore antivirals usually come in two different forms – these are (1) topical medication creams that are applied to the area of the cold sore & (2) oral medications pills that are taken by mouth
Antivirals are usually well-tolerated by most people, though not everyone can or should take antivirals. That is why, they are prescribed by a doctor. The benefits and risks must be discussed with your dentist or physician.
Canker Sore Chat:
Canker Sore Chat and Cold Sores Discussion on DentalChat. One needs to know the difference between a Cold Sore and a Canker Sore. Canker Sores are small, painful lesions that usually develop around the soft tissues of your mouth or at the base of your gums.Canker Sores usually appear on the outside of the mouth and they are Not contagious. The treatment of Canker Sores is usually leaving it alone. Canker sores normally heal on their own within one or two weeks, if they do not or are concerned, should see a physician or dentist.
We have many great oral cancer and mouth cancer blogs with us. Oral Cancer Information and Mouth Cancer Blogging link at DentalChat.
Oral Cancer Question – one thing people are concerned of and should be concerned of – is oral cancer. If a sore does not heal, then need to see a physician. If see a sore around the mouth, that are concerned about and specially if not healing, best idea is to check it out with your doctor.
Dental Hygiene Chat, Local Emergency Dentists Chatting
- Dental Hygiene Chat, Local Emergency Dentists Chatting:
One of the most important things people can do that can help with a person’s overall health – is good oral hygiene. We do Good Dental Hygiene Chat, Local Emergency Dentists Chatting & Online Dental Care problems discussion with us @ DentalChat.com.
What is good Oral Hygiene or good ways of taking care of your teeth? That includes not only doing good tooth brushing, flossing on a daily basis – but also includes going regularly to the dental office. It is recommended by the ADA – American Dental Association to get a prophy or dental cleaning at your local dental office at least once every 6 months. Some people with periodontal problems, may go once every 3 months – This depends on your dentist treatment plan & individual dental situation.
What is a prophy? A prophy is short for prophylaxis treatment done either by a dentist or a professional hygienist. A prophy is done to remove dental plaque, before it becomes calcified. Most people with dental insurance, have some form of regular dental prophy coverage.
Online Dental Emergency Discussion / Dental Problem Blog / Dental Hygiene Chat online: We will be discussing many topics on DentalChat. Common dental emergencies includes many things – that can lead some people to the ER in the middle of the night – if they can not find a dentist. Dentists and oral surgeons can help with most dental emergencies – of course, each dentist and dentist / oral surgeon specialist has different amount of training and experience. Can read more Emergency Dentist Chat online at DentalChat.com – here is a link to another article.
Having a Dental Emergency happens to many people, with over two million people ending up in the emergency room here in the US because of dental problems. Some common dental problems that can need immediate emergency dentist attention – is things like a dental abscess. A Dental Abscess should get dental attention as soon as possible. Another common dental problem that can end up needing dental emergency treatment, is dental problems with wisdom teeth.
Good Dental Oral Hygiene and Common Dental Problems
By having good oral hygiene, can help reduce the chances of many dental problems – such as dental gum disease. We will be Dental Blogging online about common dental problems and the importance of good dental oral hygiene.
- Good Dental Oral Hygiene Blog and Common Dental Problems:
We are at DentalChat looking to add content and articles that deals with various dental issues. What are good dental oral hygiene practices for individuals? Tooth Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day – are good dental practices. Good oral hygiene includes going regularly to the dentist for cleanings / Dental Prophy and dental exam. Oral hygiene discussion is important from a young age, so they do not develop caries and gum problems.
One of the most common dental problems many adults face is various forms of gum problems. Gum problems has different stages. In the earlier stages, it is called gingivitis, while in later stages – it is called periodontitis. Periodontitis can lead to severe bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to tooth loss or teeth loss. Getting regular dental prophy, usually twice a year – at your local dental office. Many younger adults also deal with cavities, which if smaller in size – can be usually treated at your dental office with a composite filling. If leave a cavity for longer periods, that can possibly lead to needing a root canal.
- Tooth Abscess Blog and Root Canal Chatting:
If do allow a tooth cavity to spread, it may end up having a tooth abscess. In order to save the tooth, a root canal procedure may be necessary. Here is a Dental Root Canal Chat article on DentalChat – here is the link
https://dentalchat.com/root-canal-chat-info-and-root-canals-blog
Free Teledentistry with us – we are helping people that have dental questions. Here is the link to post dental question
https://dentalchat.com/patient-profile/post
We welcome dental bloggers to add or contribute articles with us.
Dry Socket Discussion Online after Tooth Extraction
- Dry Socket Discussion Online after Tooth Extraction:
- Dental Chat Online discussion with Dentists:
Millions of people are going online to get more dental information on a global scale. We are looking to help people in that endeavor at Dentalchat. We are looking to vastly improve the dental content online with our DentalChat. Dental Problems, Wisdom Tooth Chatting online and Dry Socket Discussion Online after Tooth Extraction. We are looking to help people better understand various dental issues and dental problems people experience with their dental care. Online Dentist Chat about various surgical dental procedures and Dentist Chats about cosmetic dentistry.
We are looking to add more dental content with us here at DentalChat – Local Emergency Dentist Chat online and Ask a Dental Question online with us @ DentalChat.com. We welcome partnering online with dental companies in this space.
Some people experience a Dry Socket after getting a tooth extracted – usually in the wisdom tooth area, specially if it is a larger that needs to clot. The are many reasons why this happens. The blood clot that is suppose to fill in the extraction site, is dislodged and that causes a dry socket. One thing dentists do to help avoid a Dry Socket is to use some kind of bone graft, after the tooth extraction or teeth extraction.
Local Dentists can >> Local Dental Chat with new patients. We are using the best new technology in connecting people to dentists @ Dental Chat.
Dentists can help ease the pain of this dry socket, by using various medications to soothe the pain.