Why Do Our Teeth Lose Their Whiteness As We Age?

Even with a healthy lifestyle and a great dental hygiene routine, your teeth will slowly lose whiteness as you age. Here’s why teeth become discolored and what you can do about it.

Teeth and gums are unlikely the first things you think about regarding aging, but age affects them. Even with a healthy lifestyle and a great dental hygiene routine, your teeth slowly lose whiteness as you age.

There are several reasons why our teeth lose their whiteness over time, and though it’s not a sign of poor oral health, it can reduce your confidence in your smile.

At TLN Family Dental, our expert team of dentists can help you restore your smile's whiteness. Keep reading to learn why our teeth lose their whiteness from age and what to do about it.

Reasons why teeth lose whiteness from age

Aging causes several changes within teeth's structure, making them discolored.

The harder enamel surrounding the tooth begins to thin, revealing the softer dentin underneath. With the dentin more exposed and less enamel protecting the tooth, it becomes more susceptible to discolorations and stains.

Alongside the enamel thinning, the dentin layer also begins to expand. Dentin is yellow, which becomes more prominent as age exposes it.

Medications can also play a part in your teeth becoming discolored because age often comes with the need to take extra medications, and medications often affect the color of teeth.

Finally, genetics have a part in whether or not your teeth become discolored. Of course, that is not something you can control.

Keeping your teeth white

Follow the steps below to help counteract the discoloration of your teeth as you age.

Oral hygiene

Keeping up with oral hygiene is important as you age because of the thinning of the enamel. Not only does it cause discoloration, but it also makes you more susceptible to tooth problems.

Regular dental visits

It can be difficult to keep up with regular dental visits as you age, but it is still important to visit your dentist for twice-annual cleanings and exams.

Stay away from discoloring foods

Many foods, like soda, tea, coffee, candy, sauces, and bright fruits, can easily stain your teeth. Avoiding foods that discolor your teeth can help keep them whiter longer.

Getting your teeth whitened

Because teeth lose their whiteness with age, one of the best ways to restore your smile and keep your teeth white is by having them professionally whitened.

At TLN Family Dental, our team of dentists can help you whiten your teeth through Opalescence® teeth whitening. The process only takes 45-60 minutes and keeps your teeth looking great for up to six months.

If you are ready to whiten your teeth and restore your smile, contact our office in Houston or Pearland, Texas or schedule an appointment online today.