Many people are eager to achieve a bright-white smile, with teeth that almost seem to glow. The reality is that teeth change in color as you get older. However, there can be other factors that play a role in their appearance. As you continue reading, a dentist in Cary explains what message the different colors may be sending about your oral health and how a dental visit could help turn things around.
The Natural Color of Your Teeth
It’s important to know that teeth aren’t naturally white. This is especially the case for permanent teeth. The color could more accurately be referred to as bone (white with a slight hint of yellow). Years of wear and tear can further contribute to the teeth appearing less white. Here are some more specific contributors to the different colors that may appear:
Light Gray or Light Yellow
While primary teeth are usually white, their permanent replacements tend to be darker. One reason is that they are comprised of a greater concentration of dentin, which is the sensitive layer that lies beneath the enamel (the hard-outer layer of the teeth). As people get older, the dentin darkens and is more likely to be visible through the enamel.
Yellow Teeth
Drinking coffee, tea or red wine on a regular basis can lead to yellowish teeth. These highly pigmented items are notorious for leaving staining particles that accumulate on the enamel over time.
While consuming highly pigmented beverages can present a cosmetic issue, staining related to harmful plaque buildup can be a sign of decay. The corrosive acids released by plaque wear down enamel over time and can eventually travel to the sensitive parts of the teeth.
Brown Teeth
If yellow stains are allowed to worsen, they can appear brown. Some of the other contributing factors may be age, injury or medications. Smoking and/or chewing tobacco can also lead to brown teeth, as stain-causing toxins are released in the mouth.
How to Reverse Teeth Stains
If you’re unhappy with the color of your teeth, here are some of the steps you can take to turn your smile around:
- Put an end to any tobacco usage.
- Seek professional teeth whitening.
- Maintain regular dental visits for cleanings and examinations.
- Step up your dental hygiene by committing to brushing and flossing at least two times a day.
- Limit your consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages (blueberries, mustard, tea, wine, coffee, etc.).
Instead of continuing to live with a smile that you’re hesitant to show, contact a cosmetic dentist to schedule a visit. With the right treatment and maintenance, you can achieve the type of image you desire so you can show your ivories with confidence!
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh earned his dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He has since gone on to provide superb and compassionate dental care for nearly two decades. To further expand his knowledge, Dr. Singh has taken several hours of continuing education, and he maintains membership with the Academy of General Dentistry. He creates beautiful smiles with professional teeth whitening at Cary Dental Rejuvenation, and he can be reached for more information through his website.