You may love yellow daffodils as harbingers of spring, but yellow is not a good look for your smile. If you’re teeth are turning yellow, here’s a list of possible causes and solutions. 

What causes yellow teeth?

One or more of these factors can cause yellow teeth:

• Smoking

  Anything tobacco-based is the number-one cause of staining because smoking accelerates tartar production. This is the hardened plaque on your teeth that is so strongly bonded your dentist has to scrape it away.

• Genetics

  Have you ever tried to whiten your smile and plateaued at a certain shade? Just like complexions, teeth composition varies. This means you may not get your teeth to that bright white you want.

• Oral Health Habits

  Slack on your smile routine and your shade will suffer. Eating and drinking leads to plaque and tartar that cause yellow teeth. Brush and floss daily, and visit the dentist at least once a year for professional cleanings. 

• Diet

  Whether coffee or grape juice, certain foods can tint your teeth. Protect your enamel—rinse with water after that glass of wine or spaghetti supper.

  On the flip side, some foods can help keep you teeth sparkling. Check out the “White Teeth Diet.” 

 

How to avoid yellow teeth

Good oral health habits can lessen or prevent yellow teeth.

• Don’t smoke.
• Floss and brush daily.
• Visit the dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and exams.
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating certain foods.

Should you consider teeth whitening?

If you’re concerned about your yellow teeth, talk to your dentist about whitening them. Over-the-counter products could be an option for you or you may want to have your dentist whiten your teeth professionally.

Please be aware that these treatments are usually out-of-pocket expenses for you. Dental insurance companies typically don’t cover them, and according to IRS rules, you may not use your FSA dollars. 

As always, if you have questions about dental insurance benefits with Delta Dental of Arkansas, we’re happy to help. Check out our individual, family and group plans and even find a dental care provider online.