Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 2/17/2009

Question
I am 30 years old and have always had yellow teeth--that's my natural color.  I have never smoked, have never drunk coffee or tea or done anything to stain my teeth--they've been this color since I was in elementary school.  I asked my dentist about it, but he told me that it was my natural color and that I shouldn't go and get them bleached.

My question is: if I were to get them bleached, do you think the bleaching could help, if your teeth are naturally yellow?  In other words, when I go to my dentist for a cleaning every 6 months, the cleaning never makes my teeth whiter--so I'm wondering if bleaching will even do anything.

What has stopped me from getting them bleached is that I am concerned about the adverse effects of bleaching, such as sensitivity and potential damage to the enamel, as well as health effects of ingesting the bleach.  At the same time, I've always been self-conscious of my teeth.

Answer
Hi Amy,

If your teeth are naturally yellow, then bleaching is definitely something you should try. As long as the material is applied properly, there should be minimal adverse effects.

Not all bleach works the same, so your results may not be 'awesome'. However, a professional in-office bleaching should definitely bring the color of the teeth up somewhat. I don't see any real downside to bleaching, especially if you are concerned about their appearance.

Good luck, and let me know if you need more help.