My Child Brushes His Teeth, But They are Still Discolored
A child’s smile can lighten up the whole room, but if his or her teeth are discolored, there may be cause for concern. If you suspect that the quality of brushing is not thorough, it might be time to assist with brushing for a while to see if it makes a difference. Other factors can also contribute to the shade of your child’s teeth. A routine examination with Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS will help guide your child to the best solution for him or her.
Several Factors That Cause Yellow or Discolored Teeth
- Baby teeth are whiter than permanent teeth. When your child starts losing their teeth, the permanent teeth grow in to replace them. There is a difference in the color of the permanent teeth because there is more dentin, which looks yellow under the translucent enamel.
- Some candy, drinks, and other foods can discolor teeth.
- Cavities and tooth decay can cause your teeth to look yellow. When your child has decayed teeth, they may appear dark, eventually leading to cavities.
- Enamel is the white outer covering of the tooth. Thin tooth enamel, may cause teeth to look yellow or discolored and may put your child at risk of tooth decay and other oral problems! In some cases, genetics are involved; be sure and check with Dr. Evanson to learn ways to strengthen and build the enamel.
- Medical conditions that require Tetracycline antibiotics for children under the age of 8 years-old may stain the inner structures of their developing teeth. Other antibiotics, such as penicillin, have also caused stains on tooth enamel, which makes their teeth appear yellow, brown, or gray. Some medical conditions such as jaundice or hepatitis may also discolor teeth.
- Vitamins and supplements such as iron supplements are another common cause of yellow teeth in children. Certain antiseptics found in throat sprays, lozenges and some toothpaste can also lead to yellowing teeth in children.
- Mouth injuries may cause blood vessels to break, making a tooth look yellowish, or gray. After a traumatic injury, capillaries inside a tooth can break, causing blood to pool in the canals of your child’s tooth. Injury may also affect the tooth enamel.
- Poor brushing habits can be the root cause of a less-than-white smile for some children. Plaque formation can cause yellow teeth, and lead to decay and cavities. Teaching your children good brushing habits can help them overcome yellowing teeth, unless there is an underlying cause, as stated.
Brushing Basics
Brushing and flossing are the primary ways to combat bacteria and cavities and a habit they will need for the rest of their lives. Your job as a parent is to be your child’s dental coach in the early years. You may need to help with a hands-on approach until your child is 6 or 7, years old or when they can brush without missing spots. There are several guidelines on brushing and flossing with your child that will make the process of coaching a bit easier.
- Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle brush and replace toothbrushes every 3-4 months. Floss at least once a day.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Fresh fruits, raw vegetables, and whole grains snacks will keep their teeth healthy.
- Visit Dr. Evanson every 6 months for a professional cleaning and exam.
Treatment for Yellow Teeth
If your child’s teeth are yellow, bring him or her to see Dr. Evanson for an evaluation. She can determine the cause of the discoloration, and will recommend a treatment plan to bring back the glow of your child’s smile.. Make an appointment online or call to schedule a consultation today at (720) 409-0008.
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