Cosmetic Dentist San Ramon Discusses Why Our Teeth Look Yellow
Your San Ramon CA dentist has had many patients complain that their teeth are yellow. Our teeth can become yellow overtime as a result of many different things. What we eat and drink, and even our medications, can all be causing our teeth to appear yellow.
Once the outer layer of our teeth, the enamel, wear away, the inner layer (dentin) will begin to show. The inner layer has a yellow tint which in turn can be why our teeth appear yellow. Your San Ramon CA dentist recommends taking care of your enamel so that the dentin isn't exposed.
Enamel is weakened by highly acidic foods and beverages. Constantly drinking beverages such as orange juice (which is highly acidic) and soda (which is full of sugar) can wear the enamel and expose the dentin. It is best to eliminate or limit the amount of these drinks you consume.
Certain habits, such as smoking, are teeth-stainers. Smoking leaves tar deposits in the mouth which can stain the teeth. It can also hinder saliva production which in turn will put you at a high risk of dental decay as well as stained teeth.
It is important to follow instructions from your San Ramon CA dentist regarding oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene habits can cause plaque and tartar buildup, and overtime it can cause your teeth to discolor. It is recommended that you brush twice a day, for two minutes each time, and floss once a day.
Unfortunately for some, the color of their teeth may be out of their hand. Some people have yellowish teeth as a result of genetics. If that is why your teeth are no longer white, ask your San Ramon CA dentist about our in-office teeth whitening options.
Certain medications that you take may also cause your teeth to appear yellow. If you think your medications can be the cause, be sure to ask the physician that prescribed you the medication what the possible side effects are.
If you wish for whiter teeth our San Ramon CA dentist can help! We offer quite a few different teeth-whitening procedures. To schedule an appointment for teeth whitening or another procedure, call (925) 804-6440.