Yellowing teeth is when the dentin appears darker than the enamel. This appearance, which is striking at first glance, occurs over time as a result of neglected or incomplete oral and dental care. Other causes of tooth yellowing include eating habits, genetic factors, aging, smoking, and alcohol use. Without intervention, the yellowing of teeth can lead to negative consequences such as tooth decay and eventually tooth loss. For this reason, it should be prevented with some oral care tips or go to the dentist as soon as it is noticed.
Causes and Treatment of Yellowing Teeth: Tips for Healthy Smiles
Yellowing teeth is mainly caused by the natural wear and tear of tooth enamel. Over time, as it exposes the dentin layer, the color gradually becomes paler. This appearance, which usually occurs due to age, can also develop due to different reasons. Below are the most important reasons that predispose to yellowing teeth:
- Thinning of tooth enamel
- Genetic factors (textural disorders in enamel structure)
- Tetracycline and doxycycline group antibiotic drug use
- Use of tobacco products
- Not paying attention to oral and dental health
- Tooth tissue anomalies
- Consuming highly acidic foods
Yellowing teeth occurs due to many factors. Especially oral care and eating habits are very effective. To prevent this problem, which adversely affects dental health and looks, you need to clean your teeth two to three times a day for 2 minutes. In addition, you should floss and use an intensive oral hygiene mouthwash to remove cavities. To increase whiteness, you should choose toothpaste containing the appropriate amount of fluoride. Nonetheless, it is advisable to consult a qualified dentist for the most appropriate and best solutions.
Attitudes and Habits
Attitudes and habits are among the main causes of yellowing teeth. This includes eating and drinking, tobacco use, and general dental care. Each of these are risk factors for tooth yellowing and should be taken into account.
Cigarette and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and drinking alcohol are not only harmful to overall body health but also to dental health. Anyone who uses tobacco products containing nicotine and tar every day is at risk. These substances damage teeth and gums and cause yellowing over time. On the other hand, alcohol, which has an acidic structure, makes the enamel more susceptible to staining. Especially when colored drinks such as red wine are consumed continuously, yellowing occurs over time.
Dental Care Habits
Dental care habits are another important factor in yellowing teeth. Regular and proper oral and dental hygiene is important as it prevents plaque and tartar formation. Over time, these settle on surfaces and negatively affect health. People who don’t brush and floss every morning and night face yellowing teeth. Therefore, the risks are considerably reduced when these are given importance and when you visit the dentist every six months.
Aging
Tooth yellowing also occurs due to age factors. The wear of enamel and dentin over time are important factors in this regard. Both are layers in the tooth. Enamel is a protective element that covers each tooth, and as it wears over time, it causes dentin to become more visible. This results in a more yellow-colored appearance. It is even possible to notice this at a young age.
Genetic Factors
In some cases, yellow teeth are caused by genetic factors. If the mother or father has yellow teeth, the child’s teeth may be the same. If the enamel is thin, the appearance of dentin becomes prominent. This leads to teeth darkening or yellowing. Although tooth yellowing occurs due to genetic factors, it is possible to benefit from treatment options.
Medication Side Effects
One of the most important causes of yellowing teeth is the side effects of medication. In particular, doxycycline and tetracycline antibiotics cause staining of the teeth. Antipsychotics and high blood pressure medications also have side effects on oral health. For this reason, it is important to ask the doctor about the side effects before using them.
Treatment Options
Yellowing teeth usually disturb individuals because they are not a pleasant sight. It also prepares the ground for decay over time, which is a health risk. In this case, it is important to know the answers to the most curious question “How to cure yellowing teeth?”. As a first answer to the question, it is possible to say that the problem can be solved with teeth whitening. This is an aesthetic treatment method that offers the most effective solutions.
Bleaching can be performed in two main ways: in the clinic and at home. The first method applies to teeth that are too yellow to be removed with simple solutions. The other is effective to the extent that it can be passed at home. In office whitening, whitening gel is applied to the tooth surface. Then, light is applied to it, and it takes about 40-60 minutes. It is very effective as it is a method that lightens the color up to 6-7 tones.
In-home whitening, a transparent plaque is designed according to the patient’s mouth size. Whitening gels are applied to it, and the individual should use it daily.Regular use within the duration specified by the dentist is essential. Thus, it is possible to remove mild tooth stains and yellowing practically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Yellow Teeth Get White Again?
Yes, you can turn yellow teeth white again. For this, you should choose a professional whitening procedure. The dentist removes the yellowing and staining of the enamel using a strong bleaching agent.
What Should Be Done To Prevent Yellowing of the Teeth?
To prevent yellowing teeth, you should reconsider your oral care, nutrition, and substance use habits. You should remember to clean your teeth regularly and correctly and maintain your oral hygiene. You should also consume as little acidic and colored foods as possible and avoid tobacco products.
Why Dental Checkups are Important in the Yellowing of Teeth?
Visiting periodic check-ups is one of the best options for keeping your teeth healthy and white. This habit allows you to prevent tooth yellowing and oral discomfort. Specialist dentists will carry out the appropriate treatment if there are signs of yellowing, tartar and plaque formation, decay, and similar symptoms. By checking overall oral health, potential risks are greatly reduced.
