Why would my tooth be yellow?

Answer by  Sticky (363)

Changes in colour of your tooth can be a result of trauma and resultant changes in the vitality of the tooth. Also teeth are slightly yellow in appearance because of the dentine(second layer) showing through. In heavier teeth like camines, the dentine is more dense and consequently they appear more yellow than their surrounding teeth.

Answer by  sherryk (621)

This may not be applicable to you, but you might find it interesting to note that many years ago back in the 50's prescription oral anti-biotics often discolored children's teeth. I think it was erythromycin. I remember it being cherry flavored and it discolored my permanent teeth slightly.

Answer by  cbdave (124)

Although the discoloration of teeth comes from external sources, how it actually affects particular teeth depends on their surface texture. Each of your teeth is in a slightly different environment (abrasion from chewing, fluid flow, effectiveness of flossing and brushing, etc.), so each can have a different surface, hence color.