Do Fake Teeth Get Yellow?

Having a bright, white smile is desired by many. It not only boosts confidence but also adds to one's overall appearance. For those who are not fortunate enough to have naturally perfect teeth, there are various cosmetic dental procedures available to enhance their smile. One such option is getting fake teeth, also known as dental veneers or dentures.

When considering fake teeth, it's natural to wonder if they will get yellow over time, just like natural teeth do. After all, maintaining the whiteness of teeth is a crucial aspect of oral hygiene and aesthetics.

Understanding Fake Teeth

Fake teeth are usually made from materials like porcelain or resin composite. These materials are selected for their durability and ability to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. While these materials are stain-resistant to a certain extent, they can still be affected by external factors that lead to discoloration.

The Causes of Discoloration in Fake Teeth

Like natural teeth, fake teeth can become discolored over time due to various reasons:

1. Poor Oral Hygiene: If proper oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, are neglected, plaque buildup can occur on the surface of fake teeth. This plaque can eventually lead to yellowing or staining.
2. Foods and Beverages: Certain foods and beverages contain pigments that have the potential to stain fake teeth. Dark-colored items like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tomato sauce can all contribute to discoloration over time.
3. Smoking: Smoking is a notorious culprit when it comes to tooth discoloration. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes can stain both natural teeth and fake teeth.
4. Aging: Over time, the materials used for fake teeth may naturally undergo changes that result in their color shifting slightly. However, this is usually a gradual process and may not be noticeable immediately.
5. Wear and Tear: Fake teeth are not immune to damage or wear and tear. Chipping or cracking on the surface of the veneers or dentures can create areas where stains accumulate more easily.

Taking Care of Fake Teeth

To keep your fake teeth looking their best, it's important to follow good oral hygiene practices:

1. Brushing: Brush your fake teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. This will help remove plaque buildup and prevent stains from setting in.
2. Flossing: Floss between your fake teeth daily to remove any food particles that may be stuck between them.
3. Rinsing: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming foods or beverages known to cause staining. This will help minimize the contact between potential staining agents and your fake teeth.
4. Avoiding Staining Agents: Limit your consumption of foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth. If you do indulge in these items, consider using a straw to minimize contact with your fake teeth.
5. Quitting Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting for the sake of your overall oral health. Not only will this help prevent discoloration of your fake teeth, but it will also reduce the risk of other dental issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice significant discoloration or staining on your fake teeth that cannot be removed through regular oral hygiene practices, it may be time to seek professional help. A visit to your dentist will allow them to assess the condition of your fake teeth and recommend appropriate treatments.

Treatments for Discolored Fake Teeth

In cases where regular cleaning is not sufficient, there are professional treatments available to restore the whiteness of fake teeth:

1. Professional Cleaning: Your dentist can perform a thorough cleaning procedure known as scaling and polishing. This process helps remove stubborn stains and plaque buildup from the surface of fake teeth.
2. Teeth Whitening: In some instances, dentists may recommend teeth whitening treatments specifically designed for fake teeth. These treatments use safe bleaching agents to lighten the color of the veneers or dentures.
3. Veneer or Denture Replacement: If the discoloration is severe or cannot be corrected with other methods, your dentist may suggest replacing the stained veneer or denture with a new one.

The Bottom Line

Fake teeth can get yellow over time due to factors such as poor oral hygiene, consumption of staining foods and beverages, smoking, aging, and wear and tear. However, by practicing good oral hygiene habits and taking necessary precautions, you can help prevent or minimize discoloration. Regular dentist visits and professional cleaning treatments can also aid in maintaining the whiteness of fake teeth.