Society attributes attractive teeth to youth, success, and confidence; however, not everyone has a bright smile. Teeth come in several shades and tones naturally. Not to mention, they can change color over the years from various factors, like smoking or drinking a lot of coffee. However, there’s also a genetic component. Although you can’t change your DNA, you have several options to revitalize your pearly whites.
Is Tooth Discoloration Genetic?
The color of teeth can run in families. Your teeth might naturally match the color of your mother’s or father’s smile. Certain genetic conditions can also affect their color, like:
- Dentinogenesis Imperfecta: The inherited condition causes weak or brittle enamel, affecting the primary and permanent teeth.
- Amelogenesis Imperfecta: The hereditary condition causes soft, fragile teeth that can have pitting and grooving. They might also have a yellow-brown appearance and may chip or break easily.
Although genetics can play a role, many other factors that affect the color of your teeth, like:
- Oral Hygiene: Poor brushing and flossing habits can lead to stains, as well as plaque and tartar buildup.
- Diet: Consuming a lot of dark foods or drinks can stain enamel.
- Medications: Certain antibiotics and other medications can cause the teeth to darken.
- Lifestyle: Smoking and using tobacco can lead to tar and nicotine stains.
Treating Tooth Discoloration
Not all stains are caused by the same issue, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all method of treating discoloration. You’ll find many OTC products claiming to offer the results you want, but you’ll be disappointed because they don’t contain professional-grade whitening agents. Not to mention, not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening and some stains won’t respond to traditional treatments.
The best way to reveal a whiter smile is by scheduling a consultation with your cosmetic dentist. They’ll examine your mouth to find the cause of your discoloration and create a customized treatment plan, which can include:
- In-Office Whitening: Your teeth can get up to 8 shades whiter in about 1 hour when used on surface or age-related stains.
- At-Home Whitening: Your dentist can give you everything you need to achieve in-office results from the comfort of your home. Your teeth will get whiter gradually over 2 weeks.
- Porcelain Veneers: Veneers cover several imperfections at once, like stains, gaps, and chips. They are made of porcelain, which is stain-resistant, so your new smile will stay bright.
Your dentist will help you choose the best solution to reveal the bright, beautiful smile you desire. Your results can last for several months or years depending on your aftercare routine. Genetics doesn’t have to stand in your way of looking and feeling your best. Schedule a consultation with your cosmetic dentist today.
About Dr. Rishit Patel
Dr. Patel achieved his dental degree from Boston University and has regularly continued his education to provide advanced services, like dental implants, Invisalign, and cosmetic dentistry. He combines the art and science of dentistry to create stunning smiles. Contact our office today to request your consultation for a whiter smile.