If you’ve noticed that one or more of your child’s teeth are yellow or discolored, you may be worried. Yellow teeth are a bad thing, right? Is something wrong with your child’s mouth?
Well, this depends on why the tooth is yellow. Sometimes, yellow teeth are nothing to worry about, but they can also indicate some more serious issues like weak enamel or tooth decay. Learn more in this blog from the office of Dr. Brett Blacher now.
Adult Teeth Are More Yellow Than Baby Teeth
First, if only your child’s adult teeth look a bit yellow, you probably have nothing to worry about. Due to the anatomy of adult teeth, they tend to look more yellow when they first erupt, especially compared to the bright, white baby teeth.
The nerve inside the tooth is larger and adult teeth have more dentin, which is yellow in color. Over time, your child’s adult tooth will brighten somewhat, and by the time all of their adult teeth come in, their smile will look even, bright, and totally normal.
Yellow Teeth Can Be Caused by Thin Enamel
Some kids are born with thin enamel due to genetic factors. This is called “enamel hypoplasia.” This means the layer of white enamel is thinner. In turn, this exposes more of the yellowish dentin, making the teeth look more yellow.
If thin enamel runs in your family, you definitely need to discuss this with your dentist. Thin enamel can raise your child’s risk of cavities, so they may need additional preventive care like dental sealants and fluoride treatments.
Foods & Drinks Can Cause Yellow Teeth
Some types of foods like tomato sauce, soy sauce, and blueberries can contribute to tooth stains. Beverages are usually more of a culprit, though. Fruit juice, sports drinks, cola, energy drinks, and other artificially-colored beverages can stain the teeth.
To avoid yellow or stained teeth due to food and drinks, have your child rinse their mouth after eating staining foods. You should also reduce sugary and staining beverages. Your child should drink mostly tap water and milk.
Poor Brushing May Contribute to Yellow Teeth
If your child isn’t brushing properly or consistently, yellowish-brown plaque and tartar can build up on their teeth. They’ll also have a higher risk of cavities. These tartar deposits can be cleaned off during their six-month appointment, but regular at-home brushing is essential for preventing them from building up in the first place.
A Cavity Can Cause Yellow Tooth Discoloration
In some cases, tooth decay (cavities) can cause yellow tooth discoloration. If just one tooth is discolored and you also notice brownish or dark spots on the tooth or visible holes and pits in the tooth, this indicates the presence of decay. Your child will need to get help from a dentist right away to restore their tooth.
Does Your Child Have Yellow Teeth? Find Out Why at Our Office!
Yellow teeth are usually nothing to worry about in kids, but they can also sometimes indicate a cavity or another oral health issue. So if you’re not sure why your child’s teeth are yellow, it’s best to see a children’s dentist in Lombard like Dr. Brett Blacher right away. Contact the office of Dr. Brett Blacher, DDS online now or call us at (630) 916-0701 to schedule an appointment for your little one today.
