Tooth Discoloration: Can It Be Hereditary?

Do you have stained or discolored teeth? Don’t worry – plenty of people do. However, just because it’s common doesn’t make it any less embarrassing. It can be a great source of insecurity for some people, making them want to hide their smiles every chance they get. If your efforts to fix stained teeth were futile, it could be because it’s genetic. Read along to learn how genetics can affect the color of your teeth and how your cosmetic dentist can help.

Why Do Teeth Yellow?

In most cases, tooth staining and discoloration result from lifestyle factors like consuming dark-colored beverages and using tobacco products. However, others may have a discolored smile because of genetics. For example, thicker, white enamel can be inherited, just like more transparent tooth enamel can run in families. Since the layer underneath the enamel (dentin) is yellow, the thinner the enamel is, the more yellowed your teeth will appear – even if you take excellent care of them!

Can Genetics Cause Tooth Discoloration?

Let’s take a look at two inherited conditions that can cause tooth staining or discoloration.

• Dentinogenesis Imperfecta – This genetic condition causes grayish, transparent tooth enamel and weak, brittle teeth. Since teeth are weaker than usual, they’re more susceptible to rapid wear, breakage, and loss. It can affect both baby teeth and permanent teeth.
• Amelogenesis Imperfecta – This inherited condition is caused by genetic mutations, characterized by abnormal enamel formation. It creates yellow-brown tooth discoloration and soft, fragile enamel that’s more prone to damage. People with this condition are at increased risk of tooth decay and chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.

How Your Cosmetic Dentist Can Help

Does it seem like the stains on your teeth never seem to go away, no matter how much you brush and floss? Here’s how your cosmetic dentist can improve the color of your smile.

Porcelain Veneers

The ultra-thin shells of dental grade porcelain are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth, masking a wide range of issues with just one procedure. It’s an excellent solution for patients with severe discoloration! Not only can it make your smile blindingly white, but it can simultaneously correct other problems as well.

Direct Bonding

If you have a minor stain, direct bonding can hide it in no time. Your cosmetic dentist will apply a composite resin to the flawed tooth and sculpt it to perfection, making your smile look brand-new in just one hour. With proper dental care, you can enjoy your stunning results for up to a decade!

Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening can help you obtain the bright results you desire. What’s more, your cosmetic dentist offers at-home whitening kits so you can undergo treatment from the comfort of your home! In just two weeks, you can easily make your teeth up to eight shades whiter.

You don’t have to live with a smile you don’t love – even if it’s genetic. With the help of your cosmetic dentist, you can enjoy a bright, youthful grin once again!

About the Practice

At Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, we do everything possible to help our patients achieve a happy, healthy smile they can trust to last. Our team goes above and beyond to provide exceptional dental care that’s bound to exceed even your highest expectations. If you have stained teeth, we can restore a bright grin with our cosmetic services. To learn more, visit our website or call (217) 546-3333.