As you’ve grown older, you’ve become more aware of your discolored smile. Desiring a more beautiful appearance, you wonder what the reason for your dulled or yellowed teeth could be. You don’t drink a lot of coffee, you don’t smoke, and you practice good oral hygiene daily, so what is causing your pearly whites to appear not so bright? Keep reading to find out if your tooth stains are hereditary and what you can do about it.
Are Tooth Stains & Genetics Linked?
It is possible that your discolored teeth may be tied to your genetics. While this may not be what you want to hear, don’t give up hope. But before we discuss ways to improve your appearance, it’s important to understand the link that connects these two.
When looking at pictures of your father or mother, you may find that their teeth were also discolored. This problem is often attributed to two different conditions: Dentinogenesis Imperfecta or Amelogenesis Imperfecta.
The former can cause teeth to appear gray, brittle, and even transparent, while the latter often produces a more yellow or brown tint as well as softer, more fragile teeth.
Some individuals may not have either of the conditions listed above but still suffer hereditary tooth stains. Whether it is thinner or thicker enamel that runs in your family, it can lead to discoloration that can be hard to treat if you plan to use store-bought whitening solutions.
Why Professional Teeth Whitening Might Be the Answer
Although over-the-counter, DIY whitening solutions may not prove successful, there is the option of seeing a professional cosmetic dentist. With advanced training and experience, they can use professional-grade bleaching gels to target both intrinsic (interior) and extrinsic (exterior) stains.
Many dentists offer take-home whitening kits that are customized to ensure optimal results in as little as two weeks. Using specially designed trays and powerful whitening gel to penetrate the enamel and eliminate stains, this process allows you to brighten your teeth in the comfort of your own home.
If you’re worried about tooth sensitivity or decide that you prefer a different kind of cosmetic solution, there is also the possibility of receiving veneers or all-ceramic dental crowns.
Hereditary tooth stains don’t have to remain with you forever. You can break the cycle and seek professional help from a cosmetic dentist you can trust.
About the McCarl Dental Group
McCarl Dental Group wants to make it easy for patients to feel good about their smiles. This is why they offer cosmetic dental treatments in their Greenbelt office. With teeth whitening being one of the most popular options for patients looking to enhance their appearance, our dentists can ensure high-end results with the help of customized take-home kits. Call our dental office to learn what we can do to boost your smile.