Causes of yellow teeth in children: Paediatric dentist warns against home bleaching, suggests treatment options

Permanent teeth have a more yellowish, ivory tint compared to milk teeth due to the presence of a thicker enamel and dentinal thickness as compared to milk teeth. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

• Permanent teeth in children naturally appear more yellow than milk teeth
• Irregular brushing during tooth transition may cause yellowing from tartar buildup.
• Parents should avoid OTC whitening products and seek regular dental check-ups

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With the boom of social media and a well-aware generation, many have become conscious of their appearance. One of the many things that attracts attention is the smile, hence the fixation with white teeth. This is often a concern that both parents and children bring up when they visit a paediatric dentist. Dr Nikhita Gune, Consultant, Paediatric Dentistry at Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital in Mumbai, shared some of the reasons why teeth in children appear yellow, what needs to be avoided, and what should be done.

Colour Differences between Milk Teeth vs Permanent Teeth

Children aged 6 years and above have entered the mixed-dentition stage wherein the milk teeth begin to fall, and the permanent teeth start erupting. This is when parents and children are quicker to notice colour differences between teeth.

Permanent teeth have a more yellowish, ivory tint compared to milk teeth due to the presence of a thicker enamel and dentinal thickness as compared to milk teeth. Compared to this, milk teeth are naturally whiter because of a thinner enamel layer that reflects light leading to shade differences.

Often, what we notice in children’s teeth is simply a contrast between whiter baby teeth and naturally yellower permanent teeth.

Brushing Becomes Difficult During the Transition Phase

As children start losing milk teeth and gaining new, permanent ones, tooth brushing can become irregular leading to tartar and calculus buildup on the teeth leading to a yellow appearance.

Some of the reasons why brushing becomes less effective:

● Pain while brushing due to mobile or erupting teeth causing avoidance in children

● Irregular brushing patterns or Improper brushing motions

● Presence of decayed teeth in the mouth leading to food lodgement and discomfort during brushing

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The Solution

Regular Dental Check-Ups and Professional Cleaning

Children should ideally receive dental check-ups every three to six months based on a paediatric dentist’s recommendations.

During these visits, paediatric dentists may perform:

Oral Prophylaxis & Scaling

It is a procedure performed by a trained dentist, wherein he or she removes stains, plaque and calculus deposits that have been built up on the surfaces of teeth. This is followed by the polishing with an abrasive paste to smoothen the tooth surface.

When Change in Tooth Colour Signals a Problem

Sometimes yellowing or darkening of a single tooth in the dentition is related to:

Dental Trauma

Blood supply to a tooth may be disrupted if a child has had a fall or injury. This may lend a blackish or yellowish appearance to teeth. In such cases, it is essential for the child to visit a paediatric for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment.

Iron Syrups Causing Black Stains

Iron supplements generally prescribed for low haemoglobin can also lead to the appearance of black stains on teeth.

What parents should do to avoid this:

● Give the syrup just before brushing

● Do not let syrup linger on teeth

● If stains appear, a professional cleaning removes them easily

Are Tooth Bleaching or Whitening Products Safe for Children?

Many older children and teens reach out for trending social media and over-the-counter products like:

● Charcoal toothpaste

● “Instant whitening” gels

● DIY whitening strips

However, some studies show they can contribute to:

● Increase surface roughness of enamel

● Cause dentinal sensitivity

Children concerned about the appearance of their teeth should be taken to a dentist for evaluation. Bleaching should only be done in a dental clinic using approved protocols. Home bleaching or whitening products should be used only with the approval of a dentist.

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The Bottom Line for Parents

If your child is worried about yellow teeth:

● Understand that permanent teeth naturally look more yellow

● Avoid over-the-counter whitening products

● Schedule a professional cleaning every six months

● Look out for trauma-related colour changes

● Make brushing habits consistent

● Consult your dentist before trying any whitening method

Children want to look good, and that’s completely normal. With regular dental check-ups, proper guidance, and safe clinical procedures, achieving a bright, healthy smile is definitely possible.

FAQs on yellowing of teeth in children:

Q1. Is it normal for children’s teeth to appear yellow?

Slight yellowing can be normal, especially in baby teeth, but noticeable or worsening yellowing may need attention.

Q2. What causes yellowing of teeth in children?

Common causes include poor oral hygiene, plaque buildup, frequent sugary foods, certain medicines, excessive fluoride, and enamel defects.

Q3. Can diet affect the colour of children’s teeth?

Yes. Sugary foods, coloured drinks and acidic foods can contribute to staining and enamel damage.

Q4. Does brushing incorrectly cause yellow teeth?

Yes. Infrequent or improper brushing allows plaque to build up, making teeth appear yellow.

Q5. Can medications lead to yellow teeth in children?

Some antibiotics and iron supplements may cause tooth discolouration if used during tooth development.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.