Yellow Teeth in Children: Causes & How to Treat It

As a parent, spotting yellow teeth in your child’s smile can be concerning. You might wonder, is it something they ate? Are they brushing properly? Or is there a deeper issue at play? 

Yellow teeth in children are fairly common, with a 2018 study finding that tooth decay is one of the most common chronic issues faced by Australian children. Still, seeing this can be worrisome, and it’ll help knowing what’s at the root here. At PMD Dental, we believe that understanding the causes and knowing how to manage them can make all the difference in keeping your child’s oral health on track, so let’s dig in for more.

Why Are My Child’s Teeth Yellow?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Children’s teeth can appear yellow for a variety of reasons, ranging from natural tooth development to lifestyle habits. Here are the most common causes:

1. Natural Tooth Colour

Baby teeth are typically whiter than permanent teeth. So when your child starts to lose their baby teeth, the contrast between new and old teeth can make the permanent ones look more yellow, even though they’re perfectly healthy. Permanent teeth also contain more dentin (a yellow-hued layer beneath the enamel), which can affect their appearance.

2. Poor Oral Hygiene

If plaque and tartar build up on your child’s teeth, it can lead to yellowing. Kids may rush through brushing or skip it altogether, allowing food particles and bacteria to linger. Over time, this not only discolours teeth but also contributes to cavities and gum problems. 

3. Diet Choices

Certain foods and drinks can stain teeth, even young ones. Fruit juices, berries, tomato-based sauces and coloured candy are common culprits here. Sugary snacks also encourage bacterial growth, which plays a part in yellowing. 

4. Fluorosis

While fluoride is essential for strong teeth, too much of it during early tooth development can cause fluorosis. This is a cosmetic condition that leads to white or brownish-yellow spots on the enamel. It’s typically due to swallowing fluoride toothpaste or drinking water with high fluoride levels.

5. Medications or Illness

Antibiotics like tetracycline, if taken during pregnancy or early childhood, can discolour teeth. Other medical conditions or treatments may also affect tooth colour. If there’s a history of medication use or lingering illness, it’s worth mentioning to your dentist when the child is taken for treatment.

6. Enamel Hypoplasia

This is a developmental defect where the enamel doesn’t form properly, resulting in thinner enamel. The teeth may appear yellow due to the visible dentin underneath, and they may also be more sensitive or prone to decay.

How to Treat Yellow Teeth in Children

The right treatment depends on the cause. In many cases, a little education and routine can go a long way to reverse or treat the discolouration. Here’s what you can do for your little one.

1. Reinforce Good Brushing Habits

Supervise younger kids to brush twice a day, ensuring they’re brushing properly with only a pea-sized amount of fluoride and not swallowing any. Don’t forget flossing—even tiny teeth need it!

2. Regular Dental Visits

A professional cleaning every six months can remove plaque and surface stains that brushing misses. Dentists can also spot early signs of enamel issues or discolouration and recommend the best next steps.

3. Limit Staining Foods & Drinks

Encourage water instead of juice or fizzy drinks. Rinse with water after eating colourful or sugary foods to help reduce staining and bacteria buildup.

5. Address Underlying Issues

If yellowing is due to fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia or medication, dentists suggest specialised treatments such as microabrasion or dental bonding, depending on age and severity.

Yellow teeth in children aren’t always a cause for alarm, but they’re worth paying attention to. Most causes are manageable with good dental habits and regular checkups. And remember, your child’s smile is still developing. With a bit of guidance and care, it’ll stay bright and healthy for years to come. 
Contact PMD Dental for specialised treatment by caring and friendly paediatric staff. Your child’s smile is safe in our hands! Call us today at (03) 9646 5100