What Causes Yellow Teeth?

Do you find you have a hard time smiling because you’re embarrassed about not having bright white teeth like all of the celebrities do? Do you feel like this insecurity is stopping you from living the happy life you deserve? If so, you’re not alone. There are many causes that may contribute to yellowing teeth, but thankfully our Houston teeth whitening can help.

What Causes Your Teeth To Turn Yellow?

As we age our teeth tend to get yellow, but aging isn’t exactly the direct cause of yellow teeth. Instead, it is the following that we do over the years that cause our teeth to take on a yellow hue:

Weakened Enamel

Enamel is naturally white and it is the strongest, outermost layer of the tooth. As children, our Houston pediatric dentist may notice that your teeth used to be whiter due to the strength of your enamel and the fact that you haven’t had as much time to damage it. When enamel is damaged and weakened, the underlying dentin, which is darker yellow in color, is exposed. After many years of damage, the enamel may be so worn that the dentin is primarily noticeable, at which point many of our Houston cosmetic dentist patients may opt for in-office teeth whitening.

How do we weaken our enamel? Simply by consuming acidic drinks and foods, such as sodas, sugary sweets, citruses, and starches, and smoking.

Tannins Stain Our Teeth

As an adult, you are far more likely to enjoy beverages such as coffee, tea, and wine, but unfortunately, all of these beverages contain tannins, the ingredient that is most responsible for yellow teeth.

Tannins are actually good for you because they act as antioxidants, which aid in improving your overall health. However, consuming these beverages too much will likely cause yellow teeth.

Our Houston Cosmetic Dentist Offers In-Office Teeth Whitening For Teenagers And Adults

Although there are tons of over-the-counter products that help whiten your teeth, they don’t last long and may do more harm than good. By seeking in-office teeth whitening with our Houston cosmetic dentist, you ensure that your teeth are safely whitened because we take into account any sensitivity or prior dental work you may have gotten done, which makes it easy for us to fully customize your teeth whitening treatment.

If you would like to whiten your teeth so they look strong and healthy again, then please book an appointment with our cosmetic dentist. We will discuss your desired results, how to achieve them, and how to ensure you can show off your white smile for longer.