Tooth Discoloration: Stained or Yellow Teeth

Yellow, stained or otherwise discolored teeth are a common dental problem with a multitude of possible causes. Tooth discoloration can usually be successfully treated at your dentist's office or at home.

Environmental Causes

• According to MedlinePlus, tooth discoloration can be caused by environmental factors such as poor oral hygiene, excessive fluoride consumption, or drinking beverages---such as coffee---that can stain teeth. As the Simple Steps to Better Dental Health website adds, smoking and suffering injuries to teeth can also cause discoloration.

Medical Causes

• According to the Simple Steps to Better Dental Health website, tooth discoloration can also be the result of receiving tetracycline while in the womb or under the age of 8. MedlinePlus adds that some inherited diseases or genetic defects can also result in tooth discoloration.

Home Care

• As MedlinePlus advises, practicing good oral hygiene can help to remove tooth stains that are the result of beverages or improper brushing.

Treatment

• According to the Simple Steps to Better Dental Health website, tooth discoloration can often be removed by your dentist with the assistance of a bleaching agent. Stained teeth that do not respond to this treatment may be covered with veneers or composite resin.

Seeing Your Doctor

• As MedlinePlus points out, you should see your doctor if you're experiencing unexplained tooth discoloration despite practicing good oral care habits. The Simple Steps to Better Dental Health website also advises that tooth discoloration in children always warrants a consultation with a dentist.