Why Are My Kid’s Adult Teeth Coming in Yellow?
Posted on February 14th, 2025 | Christopher Neal
Many parents have concerns when they notice their kids’ adult teeth coming in yellow. This common occurrence often raises questions like “What causes yellow teeth in children?”
At Glen Ellyn kiDDS, we’re here to explain this natural process and help put your mind at ease. To learn about some of the most common causes of yellow teeth, continue reading.
Why Kids Sometimes Have Yellow Adult Teeth
The change in color between baby teeth and permanent teeth is natural. When you notice your child’s permanent teeth coming in yellow, it’s typically because these teeth contain more dentin than baby teeth. Dentin is the layer under enamel that has a natural yellow tint. Baby teeth appear whiter because they have thinner enamel and less dentin underneath.
Think of it like layers of paint on a wall. If you paint a wall with a slightly transparent white coat, and there’s a yellow surface underneath, some of that yellow will show through. This is similar to how dentin shows through tooth enamel.
Why Are My Kid’s Teeth Yellow If It’s Not Dentin?
While yellow-looking permanent teeth are often normal, there are other factors that can cause tooth discoloration:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: When children don’t brush their teeth thoroughly, plaque and food particles can build up, leading to stains. Proper brushing habits and good oral hygiene practices help prevent this type of discoloration.
- Medication: Certain medications, particularly some types of antibiotics, can affect tooth color. If your child took specific medications during tooth development, this might influence the appearance of their permanent teeth. Even a mother taking certain antibiotics during pregnancy can impact their child’s teeth later in life.
- Trauma to Baby Teeth: If a baby tooth becomes infected or damaged, it could affect the development and appearance of the permanent tooth that takes its place. This type of discoloration typically affects single teeth rather than all teeth uniformly.
- Consuming Foods and Drinks That Stain Enamel: Many common foods and beverages can cause tooth staining in children. Dark-colored sodas, sports drinks, and juices can leave stains on teeth over time. Foods like tomato sauce, berries, and certain candies can also contribute to discoloration. Even healthy options like curry and soy sauce might affect tooth color.
Treatment Options for Yellow Stains & Tooth Discoloration
If you’re concerned about what’s causing your child to have yellow teeth, you can take several approaches:
- Professional Cleaning: Sometimes, what appears as yellowing is actually buildup that can be removed during a dental cleaning. Regular cleanings help maintain your child’s bright smile and overall oral health.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Establishing good brushing and flossing habits can prevent tooth staining. Our team can demonstrate proper techniques and recommend appropriate dental care products for your child’s specific needs.
- Wait and Monitor: The natural yellow tint of new adult teeth can appear more prominent when they’re beside whiter baby teeth. The yellow hue often becomes less obvious once all permanent teeth have erupted.
- Professional Assessment: If you’re concerned about the color of your child’s teeth, our team can evaluate their oral health. Our professionals know what commonly causes yellow teeth in kids and can determine whether the yellowing is natural or requires treatment.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit
Are you concerned about the color of your child’s teeth? Our experienced team at Glen Ellyn kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics can help. We’ll examine your child’s teeth and gums to create a dental care plan that fits their needs.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and give your child the confident smile they deserve. We offer professional teeth cleanings, cavity treatment and prevention, and restorative treatments like dental crowns and bonding.
