If you’re unhappy with the shade of your teeth, you might be wondering what the cause could possibly be—you might even have stained teeth despite your best efforts, which could seem puzzling. But believe it or not, sometimes genetics can be the cause of tooth discoloration—even if you practice good oral hygiene! Here’s more about how this happens and how your cosmetic dentist can easily handle the issue.
What Causes Stained Teeth
There are many things out there that can cause tooth discoloration! Staining can often be categorized as intrinsic, which exists in the dentin layer below the enamel, and extrinsic, which is surface staining on the enamel. Extrinsic tooth discoloration is typically caused by certain foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine, berries, etc.), smoking cigarettes, and chewing tobacco—in addition to chronic poor oral hygiene. These stains can be removed through traditional whitening methods most of the time. Intrinsic staining, however, it’s worth noting that will always be harder to treat.
How Can Genetics Influence My Teeth’s Color?
Have you ever thought that some people seem to have a naturally white smile? Believe it or not, there are those who have won the genetic lottery and were born with thicker, whiter enamel that encourages bright pearly whites.
On the contrary, others are genetically predisposed to teeth that darken over time. There are two genetically inherited conditions that can cause this discoloration. “Amelogenesis imperfecta” is caused by genetic mutations that you have no control over, and is characterized by fragile, yellowish-brown enamel. “Dentinogenesis imperfecta” causes your enamel to appear grayish-blue and transparent. Both conditions also make your teeth very brittle and susceptible to damage, in addition to influencing their hue!
What Can Be Done About Stained Teeth?
With the help of a skilled dentist, patients with tooth discoloration–regardless of whether it’s hereditary or not—can experience a whiter and brighter smile! Your dentist has the means to whiten your smile by several shades, with results lasting anywhere from a few months to a few years. Many dentists offer in-office whitening or can send you home with a whitening kit; both options are viable. For patients with weakened and tarnished teeth (especially from genetically inherited conditions), restorative dentistry is also an option—veneers, crowns, bridges, and more are all capable of addressing issues that cosmetic dentistry cannot handle. But in most cases, genetic discoloration can easily be remedied.
About the Practice
The team at Beck Dental Care is excited to serve patients and families in the Columbia, TN area! The practice offers a comprehensive range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options that are certain to help you achieve optimal oral health. If you have any questions about the blog or need to schedule a visit, please contact the practice online or over the phone: (217) 546-3333.