Why Do Teeth Become Discolored with Age?

Over time, you might start noticing your teeth aren’t quite as white and bright as they once were. The natural wear-and-tear that teeth go through over the years can contribute to tooth discoloration. 

The experienced team at TLN Family Dental, with three locations in the Houston, Texas, area, offers the following reasons teeth become discolored with age and what you can do about it.

Enamel wears down

One of the primary reasons teeth discolor with age is the gradual wearing down of enamel. Enamel is the outer protective layer of your teeth, and while it’s the hardest substance in the body, it wears away over time. 

The yellowish dentin layer underneath becomes more visible as the enamel layer thins. Dentin naturally has a darker, more yellow color, so as the enamel erodes, teeth appear less white and more yellow or gray.

Stains build up over time

Years of consuming certain foods and beverages can lead to stains on the surface of your teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, and even some fruits and vegetables contain pigments that can leave lasting marks that discolor your teeth. 

Tobacco use also significantly contributes to discoloration. Smokers and those who chew tobacco often develop brown or yellow stains that are difficult to remove with brushing alone. As these stains accumulate over the years, they can make your teeth look even darker.

Changes in dentin

Dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, also changes with age. Over time, dentin grows thicker, which can cause teeth to appear more yellow. In addition, any trauma or damage to the teeth earlier in life can affect dentin production and lead to discoloration. For example, if you fall and crack a tooth as a teenager, it can cause the tooth to darken over time.

Reduced saliva production

Saliva plays a crucial role in keeping your teeth clean and healthy. It washes away food particles and neutralizes acids that can damage enamel. As we age, saliva production naturally decreases, particularly in individuals who take medications that have dry mouth as a side effect. 

With less saliva, there’s a higher chance of food particles sticking to your teeth, leading to stains and a duller smile.

Thinning enamel due to acids

Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar, can erode enamel over time. Acid wear thins the protective enamel layer, making teeth more susceptible to stains and revealing the darker dentin underneath. Additionally, people who suffer from acid reflux or frequently consume highly acidic foods may experience faster enamel erosion.

Preventing and treating discoloration

While you can’t completely prevent age-related tooth discoloration, there are steps you can take to slow down the process and even reverse it. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for keeping your teeth bright. Your dentist can also recommend whitening treatments, over-the-counter products designed to lift stains, or cosmetic dentistry to restore your smile.

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove surface stains before they set in. Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks, or rinsing your mouth after consuming them can also help keep your teeth looking whiter longer.

Call the office or schedule an online appointment for a cleaning, teeth whitening, or to learn about cosmetic dentistry options.