Teeth are such an important part of our appearance. While we talk, eat, and smile, the whole world can see your teeth. If you’re one of the 32% of people concerned with the look of their teeth, you are not alone. Having a yellow tooth or even all yellow teeth can certainly contribute to this concern. There are things that could be contributing to your yellowing teeth that you did not know about.

Your diet

As you probably know, there are many foods and beverages out there that can cause your teeth to yellow. Dentists may advise you to avoid foods that are high in tannins, like red wine, because they cause your teeth to yellow. Other foods and beverages like soft drinks, coffee, chocolate, and even certain sauces and condiments can turn your teeth yellow. These substances get into the enamel of the teeth and can cause long-term or even permanent discoloration.

You’re a smoker

Tobacco causes a lot of dental issues, including yellowing teeth. Tobacco products disrupt the normal functioning of gum tissue, and therefore affect the teeth. The good news is that this can be amended. Once you quit smoking, you must start a complete oral care routine, as well as see the dentist to see if further action needs to be taken.

You have an illness

Although this reason is less common, there are many illnesses that indirectly lead to a yellow mouth. Certain medications that are used for illness can make your pearly whites a little less white. For example, patients undergoing chemotherapy may develop stains or yellowing. Many times, the teeth are more brown than yellow as an effect of chemotherapy.

Lack of oral hygiene

This one may be obvious, but it is a serious contributor. Routinely flossing, brushing, and rinsing will prevent plaque buildup and remove tartar, as those two things can speed up the yellowing process. You will also strengthen your enamel with regular care, which can help stop yellowing.

If you have particularly yellow teeth, there could be a few reasons for this. It could be your diet, if you smoke, if you have an illness, or a simple lack or oral hygiene. For professional teeth whitening, contact us today.