What Causes Yellow Teeth? A Definitive Guide

Teeth play a huge role in how people perceive attractiveness. Eyes often come in first as most important, with teeth a close second.

Yellow teeth can have a negative effect on your overall attractiveness. Studies show that participants mention teeth color more than they mention straightness. Thankfully, teeth whitening is a relatively affordable and easy procedure. Of course, this is not a procedure you want to do often as the cost can add up.

The best way to keep your teeth white and bright is to know what causes yellow teeth and stay away from it. Learn more about what can darken your smile below. 

What Causes Yellow Teeth?

Yellow teeth are caused by a range of factors, ranging from diet to hygiene practices. Some factors cannot be avoided, but most can: 

Avoid Certain Beverages

Many people enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in the morning to get them going. If you want to keep your teeth white, however, it’s best to find another way to wake up. Coffee and strong teas stain the teeth. 

Of course, soda does not bode well for oral health, tooth whiteness included. Your dentist will love you for quitting that beverage. 

Finally, red wine is dark and the grapes are acidic, creating the perfect recipe for yellow teeth. If you love wine, try to stick with white.

Practice Dental Hygiene

Keeping teeth white does not only mean avoiding certain things but also taking care of them well. Practicing good dental hygiene helps prevent the build-up of tartar or plaque on the teeth.

Good dental hygiene also helps remove teeth-staining substances. So, if you must have a coffee or glass of red wine, just make sure to brush or rinse afterward.

Aside from good personal dental habits, you shouldn’t neglect your dental check-ups either. Whether it’s cosmetic, restorative or preventive, you should see your dentist regularly regardless. Book an appointment now to get teeth cleaning services in Lancaster.

Watch the Fluoride

Surprisingly, too much fluoride can also cause yellow teeth. As they say, it is possible to have too much of a good thing.

Too much fluoride may lead to fluorosis, a condition characterized by yellow or brown spots on the teeth. 

Ask About Your Medications

Unfortunately, some medications or treatments may cause yellow teeth. For example, chemotherapy can cause yellow teeth. Although a patient cannot just stop chemotherapy treatment, there may be situations where teeth-staining medications can be changed. Simply consult your primary care physician.

Quit Smoking

It is common knowledge that smoking causes yellow teeth. The countless chemicals in the smoke inhaled stick to the teeth — just like they stick to the lungs, clothes, furniture, and anything else around the smoker.

You might need to ask a professional about how to whiten your teeth after years of smoking.

Keeping Teeth White

What causes yellow teeth may vary, but is often easy to avoid. By making a few small changes, you can keep your teeth whiter for longer. Make sure to avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and soda. Don’t forget to practice good dental hygiene and do not smoke.

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