My Child’s Teeth Are Yellow

Just like adults, children’s teeth are vulnerable to yellow stains and discoloration. In fact, children are often more vulnerable to yellow teeth and oral health problems like cavities since they’re still learning to brush and floss properly and they may consume sugary snacks and drinks.

Instilling good oral hygiene habits and regular visits to the dentist at an early age will set your children up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. At Oasis Pediatric Dental Care & Orthodontics, our pediatric dentists Dr. Nathalie Phaeton and Dr. Ki Youn Kil and our team offer a range of pediatric dentistry services at our office in Falls Church, Virginia.

Why your child’s teeth are yellow and stained

There are a few factors that can cause your child’s teeth to turn yellow, gray, or brown. One of the main culprits is tooth decay. Cavities can create dark spots on the tooth, so you should give us a call and schedule an appointment if you notice changes to your child’s teeth or symptoms of a cavity like pain and sensitivity.

Dental trauma can also stain teeth. If your child falls or suffers a dental injury while playing sports, it can also discolor the tooth. Dental stains caused by trauma are known as intrinsic dental stains when the dentin layer below the enamel is damaged.

Genetics and family history can also affect tooth color. In addition, certain medications and health conditions can cause yellow teeth stains.

How to keep your child’s teeth as white and healthy as possible

If your child is still learning how to brush and floss, helping them with their technique is one of the most important things you can do to keep their teeth white and their gums healthy. Children should brush twice a day and floss once per day. 

Regular dental care is also an essential step in maintaining white, healthy teeth (and gums). Your child’s first visit should happen six months after the first tooth erupts, usually around their first birthday. Like adults, children need regular dental checkups and cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup, and to catch oral health and orthodontic issues as early as possible.

A healthy diet is also key for good oral health and white teeth, so limiting ultra-sugary and processed snacks and drinks is important too.

We offer treatments like sealants to help prevent cavities. Sealants even out the surface of your child’s teeth to make them easier to brush and to protect them from plaque and tartar buildup. Teeth whitening treatments are available for permanent teeth (after any necessary orthodontic treatment).

It’s also important to keep in mind that although baby teeth are temporary, they still require the same level of care and attention as permanent teeth.

For more information about your child’s oral health and the pediatric dentistry services we offer, contact us today to schedule an appointment.