Seeing your child smile is one of the best views for a parent. But, what if you noticed that your little one's teeth aren't as white as they used to be?
Why are your child's teeth turning yellow? Is it normal and if not, what can you do about it?
Let's find out the answers in this article.
Yellow teeth in children aren't always a cause for concern. Here's when this is normal and when it's time to call your dentist.
One of the main reasons your child's teeth aren't as white as they used to be is because their permanent teeth are erupting. Unlike baby teeth, permanent ones have more dentin, which gives them a yellowish hue. Moreover, adult teeth also have larger nerves and because the enamel is a bit more transparent, they seem yellow when they erupt.
Don't worry about it! This is natural and your child's permanent teeth will turn whiter in time as the enamel calcifies.
If your child still has their baby teeth and you notice that they are slowly turning yellow, then it may be time to schedule an appointment with their dentist for a professional cleaning.
We know that brushing a child's teeth can be challenging, but when you fail to do so, plaque and tartar accumulate at the base of the teeth, giving them a yellowish color. Moreover, plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease so it's important to address it before it escalates.
If your child has proper oral hygiene habits, then the color of their teeth may be due to genetic reasons. A weak enamel, for example, may make your child's teeth look yellow.
This is rarely the case, but it's worth mentioning it either way. Certain antibiotics, such as Tetracycline, can stain the teeth and may make them seem yellow.
The treatment depends on the cause. If your child's permanent teeth are erupting, then all you can do is wait while maintaining good oral hygiene. If the yellow teeth have been caused by plaque, for example, then you need to take action. Start by thoroughly brushing your child's teeth two times a day and taking them to regular dentist appointments.
Here's what you can do to maintain your child's pearly whites:
What Next?
Are your child's teeth stained or yellow? Are you worried about their oral health?
Naman Zia Ebrahimi, DMD is here to help you. Book your appointment with us now and we will make sure your child will get a lasting, impeccable smile.