Yellow teeth are a common concern for many people. While we often focus on the appearance of our upper teeth, the color of our bottom teeth is equally important. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of yellowing bottom teeth and offer effective solutions to brighten your smile completely.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the Anatomy of Teeth
- Why Do Bottom Teeth Turn Yellow?
- Solutions for Whiter Bottom Teeth
- Conclusion
Understanding the Anatomy of Teeth
To understand why teeth turn yellow, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of their anatomy. Essentially, teeth have multiple layers, with the outermost layer being enamel, followed by dentin, pulp, and the root. The enamel is the layer that is most visible to us, and it is also the layer that is most likely to become yellowed.
Why Do Bottom Teeth Turn Yellow?
Tooth discoloration can be caused by factors from either inside or outside the tooth. According to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, surface discoloration may be caused by dental hygiene products such as mouthwashes, and can be corrected with a dental cleaning.
Yellowing of the bottom teeth can be attributed to various factors, many of which are the same as the causes of discoloration in upper teeth. It is important to understand these factors to address and prevent yellowing in your lower teeth:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is a major contributor to making your bottom teeth yellow. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar build up on the surface of your teeth. This buildup not only erodes the enamel, but it also creates a favorable environment for staining agents to adhere to the teeth, leading to discoloration.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking and tobacco use are notorious for making your bottom teeth yellow. The nicotine and tar in these products can stain the enamel and penetrate deep into the dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, further intensifying the yellowing effect.
Consumption of Staining Foods and Drinks
Frequently consuming certain foods and beverages can contribute to yellowing bottom teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, cola, and foods with strong pigments, such as berries and curry, contain chromogens, compounds that stick to tooth enamel and cause stains over time.
Aging
As we age, the natural aging process affects the color of our teeth. The enamel, which is initially bright and white, gradually wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. This age-related change can affect both upper and lower teeth.
Medications
Some medications, particularly tetracycline antibiotics, can cause intrinsic staining. Intrinsic stains occur within the tooth’s structure, affecting both upper and lower teeth. It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of medications and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Dental Trauma
Injuries or dental trauma can lead to discoloration of bottom teeth. When teeth are damaged or traumatized, they become more susceptible to staining and may develop a yellow or grayish hue.
Genetics
Genetics also play a role in the natural color of your teeth. Some people may inherit genetically yellowish teeth, which can affect both upper and lower teeth. Although genetics cannot be changed, effective dental treatments can still improve the appearance of yellow teeth.
Solutions for Whiter Bottom Teeth
There are several ways to get whiter bottom teeth. These solutions address the causes of yellowing and can help you regain your confidence in your smile.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup, which can lead to discoloration. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean your teeth effectively without damaging the enamel.
Quit Smoking and Tobacco
Quit smoking and tobacco use. The nicotine and tar in tobacco products cause stubborn stains on teeth.
Limit Staining Foods and Drinks
Reducing the consumption of staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can help prevent further discoloration. If you enjoy these foods and drinks, try drinking them through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments offered by dentists are one of the most effective ways to achieve noticeably whiter bottom teeth. Dentists use safe and powerful whitening agents to remove surface stains and lighten the shade of your teeth.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They can instantly provide a whiter and more uniform look to your teeth while also addressing other cosmetic concerns.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the teeth to cover stains and discoloration. This cost-effective option is particularly useful for minor discoloration and irregularities in tooth shape.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular visits to your dentist are essential for maintaining oral health and addressing teeth discoloration. Your dentist can assess the condition of your bottom teeth, recommend appropriate treatments, and provide professional cleaning to remove surface stains.
At-Home Whitening Products
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products, such as whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels, can be used for minor staining issues. However, it’s important to use these products as directed and consult with your dentist before starting any at-home whitening regimen.
Conclusion
Yellowing bottom teeth can be caused by various factors, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, tobacco use, staining foods and drinks, aging, medications, dental trauma, and genetics. Fortunately, there are a number of solutions available to help you achieve whiter bottom teeth and brighten your smile.
If you are concerned about the yellowness of your bottom teeth, it is best to consult with professional dentists. They can assess the cause of discoloration and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs. If you are in Canada, you can visit Eastman Dental Group to make an appointment to get a personalized oral health plan.