Yellow teeth can be a real confidence killer. Whether you’re meeting new people, taking photos, or just going about your day, it’s hard to feel your best when you’re constantly worrying about your smile’s color. Fortunately, there are many ways to tackle yellow teeth, from simple lifestyle changes to advanced treatments like teeth whitening in Las Vegas, NV.
Explore the most common causes of yellow teeth and get some actionable tips for getting your teeth back to their pearly white glory.
Causes of Yellow Teeth
Genetics and Age
Unfortunately, some people are more prone to yellowing teeth due to genetics. As we age, our teeth also naturally become less white due to changes in enamel and dentin. While we can’t change our genetics or stop the aging process, things like proper brushing, flossing, and occasional teeth whitening can keep our teeth as white as possible.
Poor Oral hygiene
One of the most causes behind yellow teeth is poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to discoloration. Therefore, you must follow good oral hygiene habits to have a brighter smile, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and getting regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and drinks are notorious for causing yellow teeth, including coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces like soy sauce and tomato sauce. These substances contain pigments that can cling to the enamel and cause staining. While it’s not necessary to completely cut these foods and drinks out of your diet, you can minimize their impact by drinking through a straw and rinsing with water after eating them.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking and tobacco are not only harmful to your health – they can also cause yellowing and discoloration of the teeth. Chemicals in tobacco, such as nicotine and tartar, stain teeth and contribute to discoloration over time. Smoking can also lead to gum disease by letting bacteria and harmful substances accumulate in your mouth, further harming the appearance of your smile.
Treatments to Fix Yellow Teeth
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a sought-after and effective way to remove teeth stains. During a professional whitening treatment, a dentist will apply a potent whitening gel to your teeth containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This gel is activated by a special light or laser, which breaks down the pigments in the teeth and lightens their appearance. The treatment usually takes about an hour, and you may need more than one session to achieve your desired results.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, your dentist can prepare a customized at-home whitening kit. This kit will typically include a set of trays that are molded to fit your teeth and a whitening gel. You’ll have to wear the trays for a set amount of time each day, usually for several weeks, until you achieve your desired level of whitening.
Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells custom-made to fit over the front of your teeth. They are made from a composite resin and can be used to cover up many cosmetic problems, including yellowing and discoloration.
During a veneer procedure, a dental professional will remove a layer of enamel from your teeth to make room for the new shells. Once your custom veneers are ready, your dentist will attach them to your teeth using a special adhesive. Veneers are durable, long-lasting, and can dramatically improve your smile.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Yellow Teeth
- Brush and floss thoroughly every day to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup
- Use a dentist-approved whitening toothpaste to help remove surface stains
- Rinse your mouth with water after consuming foods or drinks that can produce stains, such as coffee or red wine
- Drink through a straw to minimize contact between staining liquids and your teeth
- Quit smoking or tobacco use, which can cause both yellowing and gum disease
- Avoid or limit foods and drinks that can cause staining, such as tea, dark sauces, and berries
- Consider using a whitening mouthwash to help maintain the brightness of your teeth
- Get regular dental checkups and cleanings to catch and treat any issues early on
Ready for Teeth Whitening in Las Vegas, NV?
At Dee for Dentist, we offer many cosmetic and general dentistry procedures to help you achieve the bright, white smile you deserve. Whether you’re interested in teeth whitening, at-home whitening kits, or veneers, our experienced team can help you find the right treatment. Don’t let yellow teeth hold you back – contact us today to learn more!
