Myth vs Fact: Are Teeth Supposed to be White? | Personal Dental Office (2024)

Our Dentist office in Los Angeles knows that everyone often associates white teeth with healthy teeth. We’ve listed a few myths concerning the coloring of teeth, as well as some causes of teeth coloration.
The color of your teeth is not a clear indicatorof oral health. When it comes to teeth, people have different shades and tints. In fact, the color of your teeth depends on multiple other factors.

Myth #1: White teeth are natural.

Everyone’s teeth are not the same. Variables in enamel thickness, as well as enamel shade, give off different colors other than white, which are perfectly natural.

Myth #2: Yellow teeth are unhealthy.

Teeth that are not perfectly white can still be healthy. The teeth are considered unhealthy if their color is attributed to plaque buildup or staining. Having off-white teeth is often healthy.

Myth #3: Braces contribute to yellowing of teeth.

Braces, by itself, do not make teeth yellow. However, the yellowing that is associated with braces is due to bacteria buildup. If you have braces, be sure to brush in order to prevent bacteria buildup.

Myth #4: Americans’ teeth are healthier than Brits’ teeth.

Simply put, Americans place a higher priority on teeth whitening and therefore more Americans get their teeth whitened than the English. However, it does not mean that American teeth are healthier.

Common Causes

Oral Hygiene

One of the more obvious causes of yellowing teeth is a lack of oral hygiene. Without proper care, your teeth may become at risk for plaque buildup and staining.

Medication/ Illness/ Diet

Changes in the body, whether from medication or illness, may create a change in the coloring of your teeth. Likewise, if your diet is not the healthiest, it may also contribute to yellowing of teeth.

Smoking

One of the largest contributors to yellow teeth is smoking. The tar and nicotine in the cigarette stain the enamel of teeth significantly.

Aging

As you get older, it is perfectly normal for teeth to get yellow. A wear out of the enamel over time reveals the dentin layer and creates a yellow tint.

Genetics

As previously stated, not all teeth are the same. Some people are born with more porous enamel. The more porous the enamel, the more likely it is for teeth to begin yellowing.

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