Why Do Teeth Become Discolored With Age?

Anti-aging treatments are everywhere: Drugstores, medspas, and even many doctors’ offices now offer services to help people look younger. One of the most subtle signs of aging is the dimming of your bright, white smile. That means one of the most effective ways to look younger is with teeth whitening. 

At the practice of Thomas Eaton, DDS, in Ione, California, Dr. Eaton and his team have two primary goals. The first is to keep you in excellent oral health, and the second is for you to feel wonderful about your smile. 

If your teeth have become discolored, or they’ve slowly faded from their former brilliance, our cosmetic dentistry services could be a solution to help refresh your look. 

How getting older changes your teeth

It’s easier to understand what happens to your teeth over time if you know the basics of tooth anatomy. For the most part, everything begins and ends with dental enamel, the outermost layer of your teeth. 

Dental enamel is mostly made up of a mineral called hydroxyapatite, which is the hardest substance your body produces. Enamel has two big jobs: 

1. Protecting the softer, more vulnerable inner layers of your teeth
2. Giving your teeth a beautiful, pearly white look

One drawback of hydroxyapatite is that it’s a mineral and not living tissue. That means once your enamel is damaged or worn thin, your body can’t repair it. 

Each day of your life, you eat acidic foods, drink acidic beverages, chew, and use your teeth. All of that use takes a toll on your enamel, and over time it begins to wear thin. 

As your enamel gets thinner, the next layer of your teeth, the dentin, begins to show. Dentin is brownish, yellowish, or grayish, so when it’s visible, your teeth appear discolored. 

The perks of professional whitening

There’s just nothing like a dazzling smile. A great smile invites people to like you, communicates your friendliness, and welcomes friends. Little else compares to a smile when it comes to first impressions. 

Dr. Eaton offers professional, in-office teeth whitening because we want you to love your smile. Whether you have a big presentation at work coming up, your family has professional photos scheduled, or you simply want to look fabulous, professional teeth whitening can help. 

In-office treatments differ from over-the-counter products. Dr. Eaton can safely use a stronger whitening solution than those that are available for home use. You’re also monitored throughout the procedure to make sure you’re comfortable and the solution is working well. 

Stubborn stains are gone, and you have the bright, sparkling smile of your youth again!

Keeping your teeth white

Of course, your teeth can become stained again, and no one has figured out how to stop the hands of time. A few things can extend the length of your results:

Stick to a strict checkup schedule

Regular, professional cleanings are the best way to keep your teeth looking great. We also check for any signs of decay and stop them before they get out of hand. 

Develop an excellent at-home hygiene routine

Brushing twice per day and flossing once is of paramount importance to good dental health. By developing a stellar at-home routine, you protect your teeth and help them stay looking fantastic. 

Watch what you consume

Some foods and drinks are more prone to staining than others. Coffee and red wine are among the worst culprits. Using a straw can help, and brushing your teeth about 30 minutes after consumption can help.

Other common stainers include marinara sauce, dark-colored berries, and tea. Being aware of stain-causing foods and beverages and doing things like rinsing with water right away and brushing 30 minutes or so after your meal can help. 

If you’d like to learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services, and find out if teeth whitening could help you get the smile you want, call or use online booking to request an appointment with Dr. Eaton. He’s always happy to answer questions and suggest treatments to help you meet your goals.