Dr. K N Murthy

A sparkling set of shiny white teeth can make a smile more appealing and infectious. Yellow teeth can be extremely embarrassing and annoying. The important dental tissues that make up a tooth include the Enamel, Dentin, Cementum and the Pulp, of these four tissues, the enamel (the white and hard teeth surface) and the dentin (pale brown) are responsible for the tooth colour. Any damage to these two tissues bring about teeth discolouration and factors that contribute significantly towards yellowing of teeth include:

1. Poor dental care and hygiene like improper and inadequate flossing and brushing techniques.
2. Unhealthy lifestyle habits like chewing of tobacco and betel nuts, smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, tea and coffee.
3. Certain medical conditions and treatments (chemotherapy and radiation) can adversely affect the dentin and the enamel. Antihistamines are also known to stain the teeth. It is best to avoid mouth washes containing Cetylpyridinium Chloride.
4. With age, the enamel tends to thin naturally exposing the dentin that lies underneath it.
5. Fluoride intake in excess can stain and discolour the teeth.
6. Yellow or discoloured teeth can also be genetic.

Yellow teeth, though frustrating, can be fully treated. The mode and success of the treatment is largely influenced by the extent of the teeth discolouration.

1. Avoid smoking and chewing of tobacco as much as possible. Control the intake of drinks and foods that can stain and discolour your teeth.
2. Practice healthy dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily.
3. Some whitening agents (over-the-counter) can be effectively used to treat yellow teeth.
4. Dental veneers are a great way to deal with yellow teeth.
5. For a healthy set of white teeth with pearly shine, consult a dentist every six months.

In addition, several natural and homemade remedies can also prove to be beneficial

1. Nothing can treat yellow teeth more effectively than baking soda. Brushing your teeth with toothpaste mixed with baking soda (about a quarter teaspoon) can do the yellow teeth a world of good. Using a mixture of baking soda with vinegar (white), lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide is an effective natural remedy.
2. A healthy practice to get rid of yellow teeth is to rub the teeth with orange peel every night.
3. Rubbing the teeth with Strawberry paste will help to reduce the yellow stain greatly.
4. The benefits of lemon are known to all. Brush your teeth with a mixture of lemon juice and salt. Wash it off after a few minutes and the yellow tinge will be a thing of the past.
5. Charcoal, Apples and Basil leaves are powerful natural ingredients to treat yellow teeth.

Your smile is precious! Do not lose it to yellow teeth.