Yellow teeth can set back your confidence and willingness to smile every day.  Correcting the colour of your teeth can be as simple as changing what you eat and drink while polishing your oral care routine. Common elements of tooth discolouration includes drinking beverages such as coffee, soda and wine. These materials get into the enamel of your teeth and can cause long-term teeth discolouration. Yellow teeth

CAUSES OF YELLOW TEETH

Genes

Tooth colour runs in the family. If one of your parents' teeth are yellow, it's likely that yours are an identical tint.

Dentin

Thin enamel makes the teeth look yellow and the dentin underneath is quite visible. Dentin is a deep yellow to brownish part inside your teeth covering the enamel, and it's often accountable for the yellow look you see in the mirror. Whereas thick enamel covers up the dentin, but it doesn't always block the stains.

Advancing Age

Teeth eventually turn yellow as you age, enamel starts to wear away from chewing and exposure to acids from food and drink.

 Smoking

Nicotine from smoking leaves yellowish or brownish stains on your teeth.

 Medication

Antibiotics doxycycline and tetracycline may discolour the teeth of children younger than 8 years old. Antihistamines, drugs for high blood pressure and antipsychotic can also stain adult teeth.

 Foods

A vast range of foods, stain the teeth over time such as coloured candies, popsicles, ketchup, curry and berries all has pigments that fasten to tooth enamel.

 Drinks

Excess intake of coffee and tea are the most common culprits. Beverages such as soda, juices, sports drinks and even wine wear away the tooth enamel because of tannins and acidic nature.

Fluorosis

Excess fluoride may cause yellow or brownish yellow spots called fluorosis. The sources of fluoride are water, tooth paste, and tablets.

PREVENTING YELLOW TEETH

Making a Few Life Style Changes Can Prevent Yellow Teeth

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day to prevent yellow surface stains.
  • Floss your teeth once a day.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Limit the consumption of foods and drinks that cause yellowing.
  • For stubborn stains visit the dentist & opt for whitening treatment.
  • Getting your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist every 6 months.