Cosmetic dentist shares 10 reasons why your teeth colour changes to yellow

Teeth discoloration can occur for a number of reasons — some you have control over, and others you don’t. Knowing what can cause them, and how to get rid of them will help you regain your natural, bright smile.

The colour of teeth can be altered slowly, and many people do not even notice at the beginning. Genetics is a factor, but your daily practices and food choices are the main contributors. Teeth are naturally on the off-white side, but some foods, drinks, lifestyle habits and getting older can turn them into an unwelcome bolder shade of yellow.

The enamel — the outer covering of the tooth — shields the inner dentin, which is actually yellow. When enamel becomes worn or stained, the dentin underneath shows through, resulting in teeth that appear dull or yellow. The good news is that with proper care and a few lifestyle changes, you can reverse or at the very least reduce discoloration — and get back to flashing those pearly whites again.

"Staining processes primarily result from the buildup of surface stains and enamel loss," says Dr. Mimansa Awasthi, a cosmetic dentist at SmileCare Dental Studio. “Implementing regular dental cleanings, good oral hygiene and dietary awareness can make a visible difference within only several weeks,” she adds.

She does note that professional whitening treatments should not be overdone, and always under dental observation to avoid damage to the enamel.

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Top 10 Reasons Your Teeth Are Yellow

Coffee and Tea:

The tannins in caffeinated beverages also discolor the enamel as they sit over time. After consuming, wash out your mouth with water, or drink lighter coloured teas.

Smoking and Tobacco:

Tar and nicotine can cause teeth to become yellow or even brown. Not smoking Not only is it better for your health generally, but also to prevent staining.

Sugary and Acidic Foods:

Sodas, citrus and candy wear away the enamel revealing yellow dentin underneath. And when you do drink it, keep the consumption minimal and rinse out your mouth after.

Poor Oral Hygiene:

If you rarely brush or floss, plaque and tartar will accumulate on your teeth, leaving them looking dull and yellow. Brush for two minutes twice a day and floss every day.

Aging:

As we get older, enamel naturally thins and more of the yellowish dentin shines through. This process can be slowed with regular dental care.

Certain Medications:

The use of some antibiotics — including tetracyclines — and antihistamines/isotretinoin, which is used to treat acne as well as both hormone-related and carcinoid tumors, can lead to tooth discoloration in general but particularly with prolonged use.

Genetics:

There are people who naturally have darker or more yellow colored enamel. In those instances, the teeth can be made lighter through whitening procedures.

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Excessive Fluoride:

Though fluoride is helpful for strengthening enamel, too much of it (sometimes from toothpaste or the water supply) can cause fluorosis and white, yellow or brown spots.

Grinding Teeth (Bruxism):

Overgrinding over time will erode the enamel, showing dentin (which is yellow) and giving you a yellow smile. Mouthguards can help prevent damage.

Lack of Professional Cleaning:

If you skip your dental visits, the plaque and tartar will continue to build up and won’t be cleaned off as well. A twice-yearly professional cleaning ensures natural brilliance.

FAQs on why colour of the teeth changes:

1. Why are my teeth becoming yellow over time?
Teeth naturally yellow with age as the enamel wears down, revealing the dentin underneath, which has a yellowish hue. Lifestyle habits like smoking or consuming staining foods and drinks can speed up this process.

2. Can the food and drinks I consume change the colour of my teeth?
Yes, certain foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, cola, and berries contain pigments that can stain tooth enamel over time, especially with frequent consumption.

3. Does smoking affect the colour of my teeth?
Absolutely. Tobacco products contain tar and nicotine, which can cause deep staining, turning teeth yellow or even brown with prolonged use.

4. Can poor oral hygiene cause tooth discolouration?
Yes. Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup and tartar, which can make teeth look yellow or brown and increase the risk of decay and gum disease.

5. Are there medical reasons for tooth discolouration?
Yes. Certain medications (like tetracycline), medical treatments (such as chemotherapy), or health conditions can affect tooth colour. Trauma to a tooth can also lead to internal darkening.

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.