Most of us dream of having a smile make over and a perfect set of white teeth. Today there are many procedures available. Professionally applied whitening techniques are far more successful and safer than over-the-counter alternatives.
Enamel is a hard, transparent, inorganic substance that forms a thin outer layer on the tooth. Dentine is a bone-like substance that forms underneath the enamel. Enamel loses texture and structure with age, exposing underlying dentin. Dentine exposure turns teeth a gray, yellow, or off-white color. The extrinsic and intrinsic causes of dull teeth, damaged teeth, or smooth rounded teeth are listed below.
Smile make over 101: Causes of changes in color and texture of teeth
These causes are extrinsic:
- drinking coffee, tea, red wine, and some sodas
- eating highly acidic or sugary foods
- using tobacco products
These causes are intrinsic:
- mouth injuries
- certain medicines such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics
- eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia nervosa
- acid reflux
Teeth have a naturally rough surface, but as teeth age, these outer grooves become eroded, abraded, becoming smooth, structureless, and rounded. When there is a natural structure on teeth, they have a bright luster because the light reflects off the tooth. When teeth lose their rough texture, less light reflects off the tooth, and they appear dull and discolored.
The warning signs of enamel erosion are:
- Mild or severe sensitivity to sweet things
- Mild or severe sensitivity to hot or cold substances
- Changes or indentation on the outer surface of the teeth
Procedures that can be used to improve the color and texture of teeth during a smile make over include:
- Dentists can whiten teeth using a 15–35% hydrogen peroxide concentrated solution. Teeth immediately brighten up to ten shades lighter
- Veneers are extremely thin custom-made casings glued to the front of the tooth. They consist of porcelain and other materials. They protect the tooth surface from further damage and enhance the quality of a smile
- Dental bonding restores damaged enamel or odd-shaped teeth
- Crowns cover the tooth and hide severely damaged enamel
- Bridges are two or more crowns that are fused to fill a gap
At-home whitening techniques
- Tray-Based Whiteners are gel-filled mouthpieces placed over the teeth a few hours a day for a month. Teeth become one or two shades lighter
- Whitening strips contain a thin layer of peroxide gel applied to the front of the teeth for about two weeks. Teeth become one or two shades lighter
- Whitening toothpastecontains abrasives and low concentrations of a ‘bleach.’ Teeth become one or two shades lighter
- Mouth rinses are weak solutions of hydrogen peroxide and may make teeth one or two shades lighter
More articles:
How to Get Rid of Yellow Teeth Overnight
What Goes on During a Typical Smile Makeover?
Smile Makeover Explained: FAQs
