There's A Reason Your Teeth Are Naturally More Yellow (2024)

"[This type of] staining is more difficult to correct when the dentin becomes darker," says Dr. Reid. She explains that tetracycline and doxycycline antibiotic use at an early age, or use by expectant mothers during the second stage of pregnancy (which is when tooth development happens) can cause this type of staining in children's teeth. Additionally, "too much fluoride, either administered from over-fluoridated water sources or excessive ingestion of fluoride supplements during tooth development, may contribute to tooth discoloration by causing the development of white or brown spots or pitting of the enamel, which can darken over time." Dr. Reid adds.

Can "tooth trauma," i.e. injuries, make them appear darker or yellower?

Trauma to the teeth, such as dental injuries, can also impact their color. According to Dr. Veytsman, "Blunt force trauma aggravates the tooth's nerves and the nerves die. [A dead nerve] is like an internal bruise of the tooth and it can turn completely gray from the inside."

So, while you might feel lucky when you trip on the sidewalk or take a hockey puck to the face and come away with all your teeth, the impact can ultimately dull your teeth as the nerves start to die. (If this occurs, Dr. Veytsman explains that the tooth can be bleached from the inside out following a root canal).

What is the maximum amount that you whiten your teeth — both at home or at the dentist?

Contrary to popular belief, you aren't boosting the actual whiteness of your teeth through professional whitening services or at-home products. Rather, Dr. Veytsman says that these services are just removing a buildup of stains that have accumulated over the years to expose your brightest natural color. These stains can be worsened by smoking, consuming staining food or beverages like blueberries, coffee, tea, wine, eatingacidic foods, and not practicing quality oral hygiene. This means daily brushing with a toothbrush, flossing, using mouthwash, and seeing your dentist for annual or even biannual cleanings.

Everyday habits at home can also help or hurt your whitening efforts. Dr. Huang explains that nutrition also contributes to the tone of your teeth, stating that "mineral-dense foods can help result in whiter teeth. A malnourished child will see an effect in their teeth." Some toothpastes can also actually be working against you here, too: Although they were trendy for a few years, Dr. Reid adds that, "using abrasive toothpastes, such as charcoal toothpaste, [can] lead to thinning of the enamel, making the teeth appear darker as the dentin layer begins to show through more."

All of these types of discoloration are known as extrinsic stains and only affect the outermost layer of the tooth, which is what teeth whitening services and products target. Although your teeth might look extra bright at the end of a professional treatment, it's not an effect that will last forever, nor will it withstand stains from certain lifestyle choices.

There's A Reason Your Teeth Are Naturally More Yellow (2024)

FAQs

There's A Reason Your Teeth Are Naturally More Yellow? ›

As the enamel becomes thinner, the natural colour of the dentin shines through more and more and the teeth look more yellow. It is quite normal that our teeth become yellower in the course of life because the enamel layer becomes slowly but gradually thinner through chewing. Acidic foods also attack the enamel.

Why are teeth naturally yellow? ›

It is because the dentin layer beneath the enamel is naturally yellow. The color of the dentin is barely visible for some while in others who have thinner enamel the yellow shade appears more visible.

Can teeth be naturally white? ›

Few people have naturally white teeth, as teeth tend to yellow with age. However, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and having regular dental checkups can help to keep teeth bright. Yellow teeth are not usually the sign of a health problem, but a dentist can check for enamel loss and tooth decay.

Why are my teeth still yellow even though I brush them every day? ›

Coffee, tea, red wine, and berries are some of the culprits that can stain your teeth. If you regularly consume these, the pigments in these food items get deposited on your teeth, causing yellow or brown stains.

Why are my 7 year old's teeth so yellow? ›

Their Permanent Teeth Are Starting to Erupt

If your child is old enough to start getting their permanent teeth (usually age 6-7), you may notice that these teeth look a bit more yellow compared to their baby teeth. Don't worry. This is normal.

How to get super white teeth? ›

For your benefit, we've provided you with seven different ways to naturally whiten your teeth.
  1. Eat Strawberries. ...
  2. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
  3. Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
  4. Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
  5. Apply Coconut Oil. ...
  6. Brush Your Tongue. ...
  7. Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.

How to whiten yellow teeth naturally? ›

Here are six ways for you to naturally whiten your teeth without the use of any harmful chemicals:
  1. First things first, brush your teeth regularly: ...
  2. Oil pulling: ...
  3. Brush with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste: ...
  4. Rub banana, orange, or lemon peels: ...
  5. Take a diet rich in fruits and vegetables: ...
  6. Go to the dentist:

Why are Americans' teeth so white? ›

There are a few reasons for why whitened teeth are so highly sought after in American society, from attracting partners, to the social construct of power, to adhering to societal ideals, to the growth of the cosmetic dental industry, to preserving dental health, and more. As you'll see, these all tie together.

Do strawberries whiten teeth? ›

"Strawberries contain citric acid which may give teeth a very temporary whiter appearance after you apply it," she says. But that doesn't mean the stains on your teeth have been removed. The acid from the berries breaks down your tooth enamel and causes dehydration. So, the teeth may temporarily appear whiter.

Can baking soda whiten teeth? ›

Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.

Why are my teeth yellow despite having good hygiene? ›

Thin enamel is one possible cause of yellow teeth. Certain illnesses and medications can cause enamel to become thinner than it should be. Acids in foods and drinks can also erode enamel, particularly the highly corrosive acids in cola and other soft drinks.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

Yellow teeth can regain whiteness through various methods, including good oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and teeth-whitening treatments. Stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco can be removed with adequate oral care, while professional procedures like bleaching or laser treatments offer quicker results.

How to whiten teeth in 2 minutes? ›

Baking-powder eliminates stains on the surface of your teeth and lemon juice as we already said has multiple components that lighten teeth. Just mix a teaspoon of baking powder and a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and brush your teeth with the paste this mixture will work wonders in just two minutes.

Is it bad for a 12 year old to have yellow teeth? ›

Since dentin has a natural yellow appearance, your child's teeth may look yellow and unmatched if several of their permanent teeth come in at different times. The good news is that this is an entirely normal occurrence. Adult teeth will eventually lose their yellow shade, brightening and whitening over time.

Is it normal for a 20 year old to have yellow teeth? ›

Takeaway. It is natural for teeth to become slightly yellow as a person ages and their enamel becomes worn. Discoloration from plaque buildup can be reduced by regular brushing. Avoiding foods that may stain the teeth is also a good idea.

Are yellow teeth healthy? ›

Non-White or Yellow Teeth are Unhealthy

This myth is peddled by firms which want us to spend a fortune on getting a perfect “movie star” smile. Although heavy staining and yellow plaque deposits aren't healthy, it's very possible for yellowish teeth to be absolutely clean and healthy.

Can genetically yellow teeth be whitened? ›

That said, it's important to know that there's only so much you can do to change the shade of genetically discolored teeth. Even if you whiten your enamel, your natural dentin color is pretty much set in stone. In that case, if it truly bothers you, porcelain veneers may be your best bet for a whiter smile.

Is it normal for teeth to be slightly yellow? ›

Natural teeth are normally tinged with grey or yellow. Basically, it's the thickness and shade of your enamel which impact the color of your teeth. Don't worry if you brush daily and your teeth still remain yellow. It could just be that they're that shade naturally.

How does everyone have such white teeth? ›

Oral Hygiene Practices

Keeping your mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria, acids and sugars will prevent tooth decay by protecting your enamel, which in turn will keep your teeth looking white.

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