why do teeth turn yellow

Teeth turn yellow primarily because of the natural thinning of enamel, which reveals the yellowish dentin underneath. This natural aging process is often compounded by lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking tea or coffee, consuming certain foods and beverages like red wine or tomato sauce, and poor oral hygiene leading to plaque buildup. Genetic factors can also play a role, as some people naturally have yellower enamel. Additionally, some medications and illnesses can cause teeth discoloration. Yellowing is mostly cosmetic and does not necessarily indicate poor health, but it can affect confidence and appearance.