The Yellowing Process: 

Believe it or not, teeth can turn yellow for several reasons, but one of the main reasons is staining caused by everyday habits such as: 

1. Poor Oral Hygiene: When plaque and tartar build-up on the surface of your teeth, they can absorb pigments from food and drinks, leading to discoloration [1]. 
2. Dietary Choices: Foods and beverages high in tannins, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can leave stains on your teeth over time [2]. 
3. Smoking: Tobacco contains tar and nicotine, which can contribute to yellowing and discoloration of the teeth [3]. 
4. Aging: As we age, our teeth' outer layer of enamel naturally wears away, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath [4]. 

Prevention is Key: 

The good news is that yellowing teeth can often be prevented or minimized with proper oral hygiene and lifestyle choices. Here are some tips to help keep you and your family's smiles bright: 

1. Brush and Floss Regularly: Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and Floss daily to remove plaque and prevent stains [5]. Floss like a boss! You can do it.  
2. Limit Staining Foods and Drinks: While it's okay to indulge in your favorite treats occasionally, try to limit your consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages. When you indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help reduce staining [6]. 
3. Quit Smoking: If you are someone who smokes, you should seriously consider quitting to not only improve your overall health but also to preserve the brightness of your smile [7]. 
4. Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups for you and your family to remove stubborn stains and address any underlying oral health issues [8]. 

Conclusion: 

Yellowing of teeth may be a common concern, but with proper knowledge, education, regular dental visits, and good oral habits, you can protect your smile and keep it shining bright. By practicing good oral hygiene, making healthy dietary choices, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, you can ensure that your smile remains radiant and healthy. 

Sources: 

• American Dental Association. Tooth Stains and Discoloration: Causes and Treatments. https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/tooth-stains.  
• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know About Brightening Your Smile. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/teeth-whitening/art-20048011.  
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Smoking and Tobacco Use: Oral Health. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/periodontal-gum-disease.html.  
• American Dental Association. (2021). Aging and Dental Health. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/a/aging-and-dental-health.  
• American Dental Association. (2021). Brushing Your Teeth. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/brushing-your-teeth.  
• American Dental Association. (2021). Diet and Oral Health. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/food-tips.  
• American Dental Association. (2021). Smoking and Tobacco Cessation. https://www.ada.org/resources/patients/cessation.  
• American Dental Association. (2021). Professional Teeth Cleanings. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/p/professional-teeth-cleanings.  

Written by Michael Ferris