A White Smile Isn’t Always Healthier – Here’s Why

Do you dream of having pearly whites as bright as the ones you see on the red carpet? Most people believe that a radiant smile can improve their quality of life by making them feel happier and more confident. Although white teeth certainly look aesthetically pleasing, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re healthy teeth. Read along to find out why a blinding grin isn’t always a healthy one.

What Color Is a Healthy Smile?

Short answer: it varies. Healthy teeth tend to have a slight yellow hue, but the shade can range anywhere from yellow to white. However, even if you never got a single stain on your grin, it’ll still naturally darken over time. That’s because the enamel (outer layer of your teeth) is a blue-white color, while the dentin (middle layer, is a light-yellow tinge). As we age, our enamel gets thinner, and the dentin becomes thicker and darker. Thus, even yellow teeth can be perfectly healthy!

Dental Problems Won’t Always Change the Color of Your Teeth

People often associate discolored teeth with dental problems, but that’s only true to a certain extent. Some oral health issues, such as gum disease, teeth grinding, and early decay, won’t affect the color of your teeth at all. So, unless you visit your dentist regularly, you may not even realize you have these conditions until it’s too late. That’s why routine cleanings and exams are so critical – your smile can look pristinely white, but there could still be underlying problems that require dental attention.

Tips for Safely Maintaining a Bright Smile

Unfortunately, some over-the-counter whitening products can do more harm than good for your teeth – but that doesn’t mean you’re forever stuck with a discolored grin!

Here are some ways you can maintain a bright smile and prevent further staining:

• Avoid foods and drinks well-known for staining. Be cautious of what you consume to prevent further discoloration. Limit the amount of red wine, soda, coffee, and tea you drink as they’re known to stain teeth. If you must indulge, use a straw to minimize contact.
• Maintain good oral hygiene. Leftover food, drink, and bacteria can stain your teeth if not removed properly. You can eliminate them by brushing and flossing every day, rinsing your mouth after every meal, and cleaning your tongue.
• Consult with your dentist. If you have your heart set on teeth whitening, ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening treatment. Most clinics offer an in-office procedure or take-home kits that are much more effective than OTC ones. Plus, they’re rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness.

Don’t be alarmed if your teeth aren’t blindingly white – it’s completely normal for them to be slightly yellow! It by no means indicates your smile is unhealthy. With proper dental care, you can assure your oral health remains in its best shape for years to come!

About the Author

Dr. Aaron Springhetti earned his dental doctorate from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. He has an extensive amount of advanced training and believes in providing dental care that is exceptional from every possible angle. To keep your smile looking and feeling its absolute best, regardless of color, visit our website or call (317) 875-7645 to schedule a checkup with Dr. Springhetti.