For most, a shiny grin is the go-to example of good oral health. That’s only natural – unstained enamel often looks vibrant and robust. Still, whiter teeth aren’t always healthier ones. They can sometimes suffer from major issues, while (slightly) yellowed enamel may still be strong. Your local Buda dentist is happy to tell you more. To that end, here’s how white teeth could be unhealthy, yellow ones could be unhealthy, and some ways to get a bright and healthy smile.
How Could White Teeth Be Unhealthy?
Indeed, white teeth tend to look like they’re doing fine. This surface appearance, though, can hide severe oral issues from view.
For example, consider a smile brightened by over-the-counter whiteners. The latter products are usually harmful, as they’re abrasive and wear down enamel. Consequently, using them on your teeth would expose your dentin. You’ll then face a high risk of cavities and tooth infections.
Worse yet, these side effects wouldn’t be noticeable at first. It’d take time before your teeth started getting sensitive or achy. As such, shoddy store-bought whiteners would erode your enamel without you knowing better.
How Could Yellow Teeth Be Healthy?
Just as white-yet-unhealthy teeth exist, there are also yellow-yet-healthy ones. These latter kinds may not look great, but their enamel is surprisingly functional.
Remember, healthy teeth will have a yellow hue anyway. Enamel may be naturally blue-white, but the underlying dentin is yellowish. Layering them together leads to an off-white but slightly yellow color. Therefore, teeth tinted this way may yet be strong and sturdy.
Ways to Get a Bright and Healthy Smile
Thankfully, you can get teeth that are both bright and healthy. You simply have to follow good habits! In particular, consider trying those below:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Your teeth will house fewer harmful germs if you brush twice daily and floss once daily. Furthermore, these actions will remove leftover food that stains your smile.
- Avoid Stain Agents – To avoid future tooth stains, lay off dark-colored foods and drinks. Some notable ones are coffee, tea, berries, tomato sauce, mustard, etc.
- See Your Dentist – When all else fails, see your dentist for help. Dental checkups and whitening treatments will leave you with a gorgeous white grin.
Again, white teeth aren’t always healthier ones. That being the case, be diligent in your dental care even if your smile looks the “right” way.
About the Practice
About the Practice
Buda Dental Professionals is based in Buda, TX. Led by Drs. Strickland and Carlyon, our practice strives to help every patient reach their dream smile. To that end, we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency dental procedures. Our team also takes pride in being a certified provider of Invisalign clear aligners. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (512)-295-5555.