Yellow teeth can be caused by staining from food, age, smoking and tobacco use, improper oral hygiene, and medications. Whitening sessions at a professional dentist’s office and some at-home treatments can whiten them.
The amount your teeth can be whitened depends on their current condition. Your dentist can work with you to get to a bright smile that can be achieved over time.
Teeth Stainers
It isn’t a surprise that food and beverages are the number one reason teeth turn yellow. Coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauce dishes, beets, and even berries can stain your teeth and turn them yellow.
The surprise for many people is that high-carb foods, sugary foods, and even condiments also turn teeth yellow. Even healthier foods like sweet potatoes and carrots can add yellow stains to your teeth. Soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, curry, and soda are also on the list of top food stainers.
Another item that is a primary culprit for teeth stains isn’t a food. It’s tobacco. Whether you smoke, chew, or dip tobacco, it is going to turn your teeth yellow over time. The tar and nicotine in tobacco seep into tooth enamel and cause deep, stubborn yellow stains that are hard to remove.
Poor oral hygiene allows plaque and tartar to build up, and that can result in yellow stains. Certain medications can also leave your teeth stained because they affect the dentin under the enamel.
Yellow teeth happen naturally as people age. Dentin under the enamel is yellow rather than white. Aging results in enamel wearing down, revealing the yellow dentin. There isn’t a lot you can do to bring back the white in this case, but other cosmetic options, like veneers, are available.
Bringing Back White Teeth
Whiter teeth are within your reach with a professional whitening session done by a trained dentist. Professional whitening sessions are highly effective and offer immediate results. An advantage is that a dentist will talk to you about achievable shades and can match the whitener to get the desired shade.
Professional Whitening
Dental offices have access to stronger whitening agents and are trained to use them without damaging teeth, so good results are more likely. Some dentists will send you home with follow-up whitening trays to maintain your smile.
Another advantage of professional whitening is that you don’t need to revisit the office for a second session for at least a year, sometimes two or three. However, professional whitening sessions are more expensive than at-home kits.
At-Home Options
There are many at-home kits to choose from for those going that route. The LED whitening kits offer positive results safely when directions are followed. Other less expensive options include whitening strips, whitening toothpaste, rinses, and other products.
One home remedy that works is using baking soda occasionally for brushing. Baking soda is a natural brightener. You won’t see results immediately, but you will notice them over time.
Lifestyle Changes that Brighten Your Teeth
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Changing daily habits can help brighten your teeth and maintain a glowing smile. Minimizing drinks like sodas and certain alcoholic beverages like red wine and Bloody Marys will reduce yellowing. Using straws to drink these types of beverages helps reduce direct contact with teeth, preventing staining. - ✦
Taking Vitamin C is good for your teeth because it reduces bacteria that cause discoloration. - ✦
Eating nutritious foods that clean teeth naturally, like apples and broccoli, can help keep teeth clean and reduce yellow stains. - ✦
One of the best things you can do to improve the health and appearance of your teeth is to keep up with your dental appointments. Getting regular cleanings will keep your teeth whiter and healthier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it expensive to get your teeth whitened?
The cost of teeth whitening depends on the method you use. In-office whitening sessions cost more than at-home kits but offer immediate results and are safer.
How long will whitening last?
It depends on whether you use an at-home kit or go to a professional whitening session. Results from at-home kits typically last around six months, while professional whitening can last a year or more.
Is in-office whitening more effective than at-home kits?
Dentists consider in-office whitening more effective than at-home kits because dental offices use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide than what is in at-home kits.
Can you whiten your teeth too much?
Yes, you can use too many whitening agents on your teeth. This happens with some using at-home whitening kits incorrectly or other dangerous home remedy methods. Over-whitening can cause your teeth to become translucent. It removes the enamel, causes tooth sensitivity, and can lead to weak teeth or tooth loss.
Ready for a Whiter Smile?
Those concerned about the yellowing of their teeth can call our Toronto dental team to schedule a consultation. Our dentists will do an evaluation and offer a recommendation for you to get a whiter smile!
