Dentists please!

[Walkingdead11]

My 16 year old son has quite yellow teeth, I fear it is genetic as I seem to remember my Mum had all hers out when she was younger for the same reason. He also has a slight gap between front teeth but our NHS dentist won't do a brace as apparently teeth have to be very bad to qualify. I'm a single parent so cannot afford private. Is there anything that can be done for the yellow teeth? He's started spending his pocket money on dubious products from the internet and it's really affecting his confidence. Help!!

Anyone???

Hi OP, why dont you ask for this to be moved to the 'Health' board; you'll get a better response.

The colour of his teeth is largely genetic but other thing (food/drink/drugs) also affect colour.

How yellow are they? Have they always been yellow?

I'd look into joining a private practice scheme where you pay about £20 monthly. That'll give you an idea of what can reasonably be done.

Brushing for two mins twice a day, an electric toothbrush, fluoride mouthwash and occasional use of a grittier toothpaste can work wonders - for example smokers toothpaste or prophy paste which is what dentists use (you can buy it on amazon but please don't use more than every once in a while as it is quite abrasive). If that doesn't help there is tooth whitening but it can be expensive. Please only go to a dentist for that - not online stuff or a beauticians - as it is illegal for anyone except a dentist to carry out

Also take a look at diet - black tea and coffee, smoking, lots of strong coloured foods (curry etc) can discolour teeth

He doesn't smoke, does drink that bloody coke though!! We've tried all the whitening toothpastes? I suppose I could get him in with our hygienist?

I use listerine whitening mouthwash for the entire time I'm in the shower (about 20 minutes) and that's made a huge difference my teeth

Hi OP - we are going to move this one over to the general health board for you shortly. Hope that helps .

NiceCuppaTeaAndASitDown

Would that not damage the enamel?

I've been doing it a long time and the dentist tells me my teeth are perfect, but I'm by no means an expert

I might get him to try it. Thanks!