We accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), click here to learn more

Schedule
Appointment

Yellow Teeth: Causes and How to Whiten Teeth

Yellow Teeth Causes and How to Whiten Teeth

Tooth yellowing is a common cosmetic dental concern where the natural white color of the teeth fades and takes on a yellowish colour. It is caused by a variety of factors such as aging, genetics, lifestyle habits, and certain medications.

As we age, the enamel on our teeth gradually wears away, revealing the yellow dentin layer of the tooth. Genetics also play a role in tooth color, as some people are born with denser enamel than others which makes their teeth appear whiter.

Are you feeling self-conscious about the colour of your teeth? At Alpen Dental, we offer our patients teeth whitening treatments to enhance the aesthetic appearance of your smile.

What causes Yellow Teeth?

Yellow teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  1. Aging:

    As we age, the outer layer of the tooth enamel becomes thinner, which exposes the yellowish dentin layer underneath.

  2. Genetics:

    The natural colour of your teeth is largely determined by your genetics. Some patients may have naturally whiter enamel than others.

  3. Lifestyle habits:

    Certain lifestyle habits can contribute to yellowing of the teeth. For example, smoking or using tobacco products, drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or soda, and consuming foods with strong pigments such as curry or berries can stain the teeth over time.

  4. Poor oral hygiene:

    Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can cause them to appear yellow. If you are due for a dental clinic, we invite you to schedule your dental appointments with our Blackfalds dental team.

  5. Certain medications:

    Some medications can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect. For example, antibiotics can cause yellowing of the teeth if taken during tooth development.

  6. Health conditions:

    Some health conditions such as liver disease and jaundice can cause yellowing of the teeth.

  7. Trauma:

    Trauma to a tooth can cause the tooth to loose its aesthetic look, which can result in yellowing or discoloration.

It’s important to note that tooth discoloration is not always a cause for concern and can be purely cosmetic. If you are concerned about the colour of your teeth, it is best to consult a dentist near Red Deer to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate teeth whitening treatment in Blackfalds.

Can yellow teeth become white?

Yellow teeth can be whitened through various professional dental treatments with a dentist near you or at-home treatments.

Professional teeth whitening treatments performed by our dentist in Blackfalds involve using a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, to break down the stains on the teeth and make them appear whiter. These treatments can be done in-office or through take-home kits provided by our dentist near Red Deer.

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products, such as whitening strips, toothpaste, and gels, can also be effective in removing surface stains and improving the colour of your teeth. However, they may not be as effective as professional treatments provided in our Blackfalds dental office and may take longer to achieve noticeable results.

It is important to note that not all cases of yellow teeth can be fully whitened, especially if the discoloration is due to genetics or certain medications. Additionally, excessive or improper use of teeth whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity and damage to the enamel. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a dentist near you before starting any whitening treatment to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific smile goals.

If you are looking to change the aesthetic appearance of your smile, contact Alpen Dental today to schedule a teeth whitening consultation with our Blackfalds dental team.

FAQs

1] How long does it take for your teeth to go from yellow to white?

The length of time it takes for yellow teeth to become white can vary depending on the severity of the discoloration, the method of treatment used, and the patient’s overall dental health.

Professional teeth whitening treatments performed by our dentist in Blackfalds can often produce noticeable results after just one session. At-home whitening treatments using over-the-counter products may take longer, typically a few weeks to a few months, depending on the frequency of use and the concentration of the bleaching agent.

2] What causes excessive yellow teeth?

Various factors, including genetics, aging, lifestyle habits, poor oral hygiene, certain medications, other health conditions, and dental trauma, can cause excessive yellow teeth. Visit a dentist near you to learn more about teeth whitening treatments.

3] How to Whiten Sensitive Teeth at Home

If you have sensitive teeth, it is important to be cautious when whitening them at home. To whiten sensitive teeth, follow these tips:

  • Use a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth:
  • Try a low-concentration whitening product:
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Avoid acidic foods and drinks:
  • Try natural remedies
  • Consult a dentist near you