Your mother’s curly hair, your father’s blue eyes, your grandmother’s freckles – many features are passed down from generation to generation. Can the color of your teeth be one of them? If you still have stained teeth despite good oral care habits, you might be wondering if it’s due to genetics. Read along as we discuss how your genes can influence the color of your smile, as well as steps you can take to keep it bright.
How Do Your Genes Affect the Appearance of Your Teeth?
It’s no secret that your oral hygiene habits can affect the color of your teeth. However, genetics can also influence their shade. The thickness of your enamel can be inherited, meaning yours might be thicker or more transparent depending on what runs in your family. The yellow-brown layer underneath the enamel (dentin) is more noticeable when the enamel is thin, making your smile look darker or more yellow. Unfortunately, people with genetically yellow teeth may not be able to brighten them with over-the-counter whiteners or toothpaste.
There are also two inherited conditions that can cause genetic tooth staining or discoloration:
Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
This inherited genetic condition causes the teeth to be a grayish, yellow-brown color and makes them look translucent. It causes them to be weaker than usual, leaving them more vulnerable to rapid wear, breakage, and loss. The disorder can affect both baby teeth and permanent teeth.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta
This is another inherited condition caused by genetic mutations. It’s a rare disorder characterized by abnormal enamel formation. It causes yellow-brown tooth discoloration and soft, fragile enamel that is susceptible to pitting or grooving. The condition also increases one’s risk of tooth decay and damage (i.e., chipped, cracked, or broken teeth).
Tips to Maintain a Healthy, Bright Smile
Even if you’re genetically predisposed to discolored teeth, there are several ways you can maintain a bright smile! Here are a few tips:
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily. Residual food particles, debris, and bacteria can stain your teeth if not removed properly.
- Be conscious of the foods and drinks you consume. In addition to proper dental care, your diet can also influence the color of your smile. Stay away from foods and drinks that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and berries. Instead, eat a well-balanced diet full of nutritious foods!
- Ask your dentist about whitening treatment. If you want a dramatically brighter grin, professional teeth whitening treatment can help you achieve your desired results. The effects are instant and can last many years with proper dental care!
If you’re unhappy with the color of your smile, don’t worry, you’re certainly not alone. Ultimately, proper dental care and a healthy lifestyle is the best way to keep your pearly whites bright – no matter what your genes say!
About the Practice
At Longmont Complete Dentistry, we go above and beyond to give every patient the attentive, high-quality, personalized treatment they deserve. We provide exceptional dental care that is guaranteed to leave you smiling every time you leave our office. If you’re unhappy with the color of your smile, our cosmetic dentist can restore its radiance with a whitening treatment. Visit our website or call (303) 772-7000 to schedule a consultation.