Most people consider bright white teeth incredibly attractive, though very few people come by them naturally. Stains on your teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious about your appearance or anxious that others might judge you. They might assume that you don’t have healthy hygiene habits or care about the way you look.
However, in many cases, dental discoloration has nothing to do with how well you care for your teeth. Continue reading to learn more about the role genetics plays in the shade of your smile!
What Type of Discoloration Do I Have?
Do you have stubborn blemishes in your grin that won’t fade no matter how frequently or thoroughly you brush and floss? If so, you might be dealing with intrinsic stains in the lower layers of your teeth. Extrinsic stains in your enamel can usually be bleached away because they result from exposure to dark foods and beverages.
Unfortunately, flaws that originate inside your tooth might not respond to topical treatments. If you’ve tried whitening products with no success, then you might be dealing with a more serious underlying issue.
What Causes Intrinsic Stains?
Overexposure to certain prescription medications or fluoride as a child can sometimes impact the shade of your teeth when they arrive, but that’s not the only cause of your aesthetic issues. It’s also possible to inherit genetic conditions that cause them, such as:
- Dentinogenesis imperfecta. This disorder impacts tooth development, making primary and permanent teeth weak and brittle. Not only does this leave them more susceptible to chips, cracks, and other breaks, but it also causes a blue-gray or yellow-brown tint.
- Amelogenesis imperfecta. Another genetic disorder, this condition affects the structure and appearance of your enamel. Your pearly whites may be smaller, toned yellow, and prone to pits and grooves that lead to rapid wear and tear.
How Are Intrinsic Stains Treated?
You may not be able to bleach your internal stains away, but don’t lose hope! There are several other ways your dentist can help you upgrade your grin. For instance, they can fit you with porcelain veneers to create a flawless smile. These thin, ceramic shells are customized to be just the right hue, shape, and size and then bonded to the front surface of your teeth to hide aesthetic concerns.
You might benefit from dental bonding if you’re seeking a more cost-effective option. For this procedure, your provider applies tooth-colored composite resin to your tooth in layers to fill in or cover your enamel. Then, they harden it with a special ultraviolet light so it bonds with your enamel.
If you’re unsure of the best way to attain the bright white grin you’ve always dreamed of, the best way to proceed is to schedule a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
At Papageorgiou Dental Associates, you and the entire family benefit from two dentists who offer a wide array of services conveniently under one roof. Dr. Papageorgeiou and Dr. Buckley are experienced in working with patients of all ages and can help with everything from basic preventative care to cosmetic enhancements. They combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to keep you comfortable while implementing fully individualized treatment plans. If you’re eager to improve your appearance, you can request a consultation on the website or call (508) 545-1126.