You can’t put a price on the benefits of having a bright, beautiful smile. However, not everyone has naturally white teeth. Teeth come in many shades and tones, and various factors can affect their color, like your makeup. Believe it or not, certain colors can make your teeth look discolored, while others can enhance their vibrancy. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your pearly whites look their best.
Common Causes of Tooth Stains
Few people have perfect white teeth naturally and your enamel can change color over time. Many things influence the color of your enamel, like:
- Poor Oral Hygiene Habits: Inadequate brushing and flossing habits can cause plaque and tartar buildup that can make your teeth look brown or yellow.
- Genetics: Tooth discoloration can run in families.
- Age: Your enamel becomes thinner with age, which causes more of your yellow dentin to be visible.
- Smoking: Tobacco use can cause tar and nicotine stains.
- Foods and Drinks: Consuming a lot of dark-colored foods and drinks can stain your enamel.
- Medications: Certain medications are known to cause tooth discoloration, like some antibiotics.
In addition, your teeth can look different colors on certain days because of your clothing or makeup. When choosing an outfit or picking lipstick, here are colors to consider:
Best Colors for White Teeth:
- Blue
- Red
- Cool Pink
- Nude
- Berries
- Violet
Colors That Accentuate Discoloration:
- Gold
- Orange
- Black
- Grey
- Brown
Since no two cases are identical, tooth discoloration requires a unique approach to correct. Your cosmetic dentist will determine the source of your staining to create a personalized treatment plan.
Treating Tooth Discoloration
Surface and age-related discoloration can be reversed with a professional whitening system. You can achieve in-office results using the convenience of an over-the-counter product with a take-home kit from your dentist.
They will give you everything you need to whiten your teeth gradually. You’ll use the trays and highly concentrated whitening gel every day for about 2 weeks. Your teeth will get noticeably whiter, and your results can last for several months or years with the right aftercare, like brushing and flossing.
You won’t think twice before smiling in a picture or laughing with a friend because your teeth will look their whitest. You’ll give your confidence a boost to always look and feel your best.
About Dr. Joshua Thomas Pogue
Dr. Pogue achieved his dental degree at the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine and has regularly continued his training in many specialties, including cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Iowa Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (563) 362-3807.