Having whiter teeth can do wonders for your confidence, and it can help you make a great first impression during dates, job interviews, and other important life events. But what does the color of your smile say about its condition? The common assumption is that whiter teeth are healthier teeth, but is that really true? Here’s what you need to know if you want to protect your oral health.

What Does Tooth Color Say About Your Oral Health?

The short answer is, “Less than you might think.” There are several factors that can influence the shade of your teeth, including genetics, diet, and age. In particular, the thickness of your enamel can make a difference. The dentin beneath the enamel tends to be yellowish in color. The thinner your enamel is, the more visible the dentin is. As such, some people naturally have yellower smiles simply because they have thinner enamel.

The result of all this is that tooth color is not a reliable indicator of oral health. Even if your teeth are yellower than you would like, that doesn’t necessarily mean there’s anything wrong with them. Conversely, whiter teeth can still suffer from cavities and other issues.

Teeth Whitening and Oral Health

Many dentists offer professional teeth whitening for brightening dull, stained, or otherwise discolored teeth. This can be a safe, reliable way to enhance the appearance of your smile. However, it’s important to realize that the procedure is purely cosmetic. It won’t strengthen your teeth, and it won’t do anything to treat existing health problems such as cavities.

In fact, having whitening performed on a decayed tooth is actually a bad idea. Doing so can lead to significant discomfort, and it can even result in permanent damage to the tooth. If you want to undergo teeth whitening, any cavities you have must be properly treated first.

What’s Really Important for Oral Health?

No matter what color your teeth are, you need to maintain the right habits to keep your smile in excellent condition. This includes:

• Brushing at least two times every day with a fluoride-based toothpaste.
• Making flossing a daily habit.
• Limiting your exposure to foods and beverages that are high in sugar.
• Avoiding tobacco products.
• Visiting your dentist at least two times a year for routine checkups and cleanings.

Bright white teeth are wonderful to have. However, a brighter smile is not necessarily a healthier smile. Regardless of the color of your teeth, it’s essential to give them the care they need to keep cavities and other oral health threats at bay.

About the Practice

At Generations Dental Care, our dentists are continuing a proud tradition of creating beautiful, healthy smiles. Our practice has been serving the Concord community for over 100 years now, and we pride ourselves on being able to offer a comprehensive menu of services, from routine preventive care to cosmetic dentistry. If you have concerns about the health or color of your smile, you can schedule an appointment with our team by visiting our website or calling (603) 225-6331.