The color of teeth is a common concern for many people. Teeth naturally range in shades of yellow, brown, and grey. Some people have perfectly white teeth that gleam like pearls. So what causes teeth to be different colors, and are teeth supposed to be white?
What determines tooth color?
There are several factors that contribute to tooth color:
- Enamel thickness – The enamel is the outer layer of the tooth. Thicker enamel allows less of the yellowy dentin underneath to show through.
- Dentin properties – Dentin makes up the bulk of the tooth underneath the enamel. Yellowish dentin shows through more in teeth with thinner enamel.
- Natural coloring – Genetics plays a role in the natural shade of teeth. Some people simply have whiter teeth than others.
- Aging – Teeth often darken subtly over time as the enamel thins and the dentin layer increases.
- Staining – External stains from food, drinks, smoking, medications, etc. can discolor teeth.
The natural color of teeth stems from the properties of the inner dentin layer. But the outer enamel protects against stains and blocks the yellowish tint of the dentin from showing through significantly.
Are naturally white teeth healthy?
Teeth don’t have to be pearly white to be healthy. The most important factors in dental health are:
- Avoiding cavities and tooth decay
- Practicing good oral hygiene
- Getting sufficient fluoride
- Regular dental cleanings and checkups
Teeth naturally range from light yellowish to greyish shades. Very white teeth may look aesthetically pleasing, but don’t necessarily indicate healthier teeth.
When are white teeth unrealistic?
There are several situations where extremely white teeth are unrealistic:
- Genetic factors – Some people simply have thicker dentin or thinner enamel that blocks less yellowish tint.
- Aging – Teeth naturally darken subtly over time.
- Fluorosis – Overexposure to fluoride causes white mottling.
- Certain medications – Medicines like tetracycline can cause tooth discoloration.
- Trauma – Injuries may damage the tooth and affect the color.
- Restorations – Fillings, crowns, and veneers may not perfectly match natural tooth color.
While minor stains can be removed through cleaning, bleaching procedures are the only way to dramatically whiten teeth beyond their natural color.
When are white teeth a sign of health problems?
In some cases, unusually white teeth can indicate an underlying health condition:
- Fluorosis – Overexposure to fluoride causes white specks and streaks in teeth.
- Gum disease – Receding gums can expose more of the white root surface of teeth.
- Tooth decay – White spots may indicate demineralization of enamel in the early stages of decay.
- Cancer – White patches or lesions may be a sign of oral cancer.
- Leukoplakia – White patches in the mouth indicate this pre-cancerous condition.
Teeth that are excessively white for no apparent reason may signify a health problem worth looking into.
What is a healthy and realistic tooth shade?
Dentists consider a light yellowish or greyish natural tooth shade to be healthy and realistic. Here are some characteristics of realistic natural teeth:
- Not perfectly white, but not overly yellow
- Slightly darker near the gums
- May be slightly yellowish in areas where enamel is thinner
- May darken subtly with age over time
- Match well with neighboring teeth
While considered aesthetically pleasing, ultra bright white teeth are not necessary for dental health. Natural teeth simply exhibit some variation in lightness and darkness.
How are teeth whitened?
Teeth whitening procedures remove stains and visibly lighten tooth color beyond the natural shade. Options include:
- Professional in-office whitening – Uses higher concentration whitening gels along with light or laser activation for dramatic results in about an hour.
- Dentist-provided trays – Custom fitted trays are filled with peroxide whitening gel and worn for a few hours at a time over a couple weeks.
- Over-the-counter whitening – Trays, strips, toothpastes and rinses help remove surface stains gradually over time.
Whitening treatments are safe when following directions, but can cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation in some cases.
| Whitening Method | Treatment Time | Lasting Effect |
|---|---|---|
| In-office Whitening | 1-3 visits | 1-3 years |
| Dentist-provided Trays | 1-4 weeks | 1-3 years |
| Over-the-Counter | Daily use | Months |
In-office and dentist-provided trays offer the most dramatic whitening results. Over-the-counter methods require daily use but are the most affordable options.
Toothpaste
Whitening toothpastes use mild abrasives and chemical additives to remove surface stains and whiten teeth a couple shades. Results are gradual and not overly dramatic. Whitening toothpaste should be used twice daily in place of regular toothpaste.
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips coated with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are applied to the teeth for 30 minutes or longer at a time. Used daily, strips can lighten teeth over a week or two of continued use. Some sensitivity or gum irritation may occur.
Whitening Rinses
Whitening mouthwashes contain hydrogen peroxide to help remove stains. Swished around in the mouth for 60 seconds daily, rinses whiten teeth subtly over time. Results are milder with less risk of sensitivity.
Can whitened teeth become stained again?
Yes, teeth inevitably become stained again over time after whitening treatments. Here are some ways to help maintain whitening results:
- Brush with a whitening toothpaste daily
- Floss thoroughly to remove plaque buildup
- Avoid heavily staining foods and drinks after whitening
- Avoid smoking which causes severe stains
- Get touch-up whitening treatments annually or as needed
While professional whitening can last a year or more, teeth will gradually darken again. Practicing good oral hygiene and occasional touch-ups help keep teeth whiter.
Conclusion
Teeth naturally range in shades of yellow, brown, and grey. Very white teeth are not necessary for dental health, but are considered desirable for aesthetic reasons. Stains can be removed through various whitening treatments to brighten teeth beyond their natural color. But teeth inevitably restain over time. Maintaining good oral hygiene and getting periodic touch-up whitening helps keep teeth whiter.