While keeping your teeth white is a lifelong goal for many, age-related factors often make it more challenging.
This month, Mehrnoosh Darj, DDS, explains why teeth tend to lose their bright, white appearance over time and how whitening treatments at Dr. Darj Dental in El Paso, Texas, can help restore the sparkle to your smile.
The outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel, wears down as you age due to years of chewing, brushing, and exposure to acidic foods and beverages.
As this protective layer erodes, dentin — the yellowish layer underneath your enamel that surrounds your tooth pulp — becomes more visible. Because dentin is naturally yellow, it can make your teeth appear discolored.
Even if you have a solid at-home oral care routine, your teeth are still exposed to stain-causing foods every day. Berries, turmeric, tomato-based sauces, and curries can stain your teeth. Don’t give these foods up, though — they contain powerful antioxidants and nutrients.
In addition to food, beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and soda, as well as habits like smoking, can cause extrinsic stains.
Over the years, these stains build up on the surface of your teeth and contribute to discoloration.
Certain medications, such as antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, and chemotherapy treatments, can cause teeth to darken over time.
Never stop taking medications unless directed to do so by your prescribing provider. If you have concerns about tooth discoloration (or any other side effect, for that matter), discuss them with your provider.
Dry mouth, which becomes more common with age, reduces saliva flow and makes it harder for your body to rinse away food particles and acids that lead to staining.
If you suspect that you have dry mouth, let us know. The condition can also increase your risk of developing cavities. Dr. Darj may recommend mouthwashes designed to help with dry mouth.
If you’re struggling with conditions such as arthritis or Parkinson’s disease, it may be harder for you to thoroughly clean your teeth and remove plaque and food debris. If you don’t remove plaque daily with brushing and flossing, it can harden. Hardened plaque is called tartar.
Tartar is initially yellow, but it can also appear as green, brown, or even black.
If you’re struggling to thoroughly clean your teeth, consider using assistive tools, including ergonomically shaped toothbrushes, flossing aids, and water flossers.
Discolored teeth are a common complaint, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a dull-looking smile. You can maintain a bright smile with regular dental care and teeth whitening treatments.
Depending on your needs, Dr. Darj may recommend:
You can maintain your pearly whites through regular cleanings and at-home care. If you do indulge in stain-inducing foods, be sure to rinse your mouth out afterward.
Would you like to have a brighter smile? Call Dr. Darj Dental at 915-213-3767 to explore your teeth whitening options or schedule a tooth whitening consultation online through this website.
