You can’t put a price on the benefits of having a bright smile. White teeth are associated with a healthy mouth, but you can’t base your oral health on the color of your enamel. Just because your teeth are white does not mean you don’t have untreated issues in your mouth. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip seeing your dentist, even if your teeth are white.
Teeth Come in Many Colors
Teeth come in many shades and tones. If you have a parent with naturally white teeth, your smile will look similar. However, teeth change color over time for various reasons, like drinking a lot of coffee or smoking. Aging will also make your teeth darker from enamel loss caused by years of wear and tear. More of your yellowish dentin will be visible through your enamel, which may make your teeth look dirty or unhealthy.
Although white teeth are attributed to good dental hygiene, many oral health issues can be hidden in your mouth.
Not All Dental Problems are Visible
Not all dental issues are visible to an untrained eye, like weakened enamel or gum disease. Many oral health problems can’t be seen from the surface and may not cause any symptoms. Even if you have the whitest teeth, you could have serious concerns lingering in your mouth, like cavities, oral cancer, or infections.
Commit to Healthy Teeth and Gums
No matter the color of your teeth, you can keep your mouth healthy and beautiful by following a few tips:
- Brush and Floss: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes. Use high-quality floss to clean between each tooth and around the gum line daily. Good oral hygiene at home will prevent plaque and tartar buildup to ensure your teeth look they’re cleanest. Brushing and flossing also remove food residue and bacteria that can affect your dental health.
- Limit Sugars and Starches: Sugars and starches feed cavity-causing bacteria that can erode your enamel over time. If you can’t resist your sweet tooth or a bag of chips, brush your teeth after you finish. If you can’t get to your toothbrush, rinse your mouth with water.
- Visit Your Dentist: Schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months, even if you don’t have any current oral health concerns. They’ll examine your mouth to look for the smallest of issues, like enamel loss or gum inflammation, to provide the quick care you need.
With your oral and general health closely connected, don’t let the color of your teeth fool you. You can ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful with the right habits at home and regular care from a dentist.
About Dr. Anthony Giamberardino
Dr. Giamberardino earned his dental degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has regularly continued his education in various specialties, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call (339) 674-6725.