Quick Summary
Teeth are covered in enamel, which naturally wears away with age and cannot be replaced, exposing the yellow dentin beneath and leaving smiles looking dingy. Foods and drinks including beets, berries, tea, coffee, dark soda, red wine, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar add long-term staining. Before a photographed occasion, have your teeth examined and cleaned and plan whitening well in advance.
While life can be full of moments that are wonderful, there are days that just naturally stand out: your wedding, your graduation, a very special anniversary or birthday, or a big job interview you’ve always wanted. Many of these events are photographed, and when you look back at those photos in years to come, you naturally want to look your very best. Will you look back on your photos and wonder, could my teeth have looked better? The answer could be yes if your teeth aren’t the best and the brightest they can be.
Teeth are covered in enamel, a strong white coating on top of the internal structures of your tooth. As we age, enamel naturally wears away. Because it cannot be replaced naturally, the enamel thins, and the yellow layer of dentin beneath is exposed. This leads to smiles that are discolored and yellowed, appearing dingy and dim.
The foods we eat affect the brightness of our teeth, and some can begin to stain long-term. Beets, blueberries and blackberries can leave stains, as can tea, coffee, dark soda and red wine. Even soy sauce and balsamic vinegar can discolor your smile. If you have any crown, bridges or veneers, those structures aren’t affected by long-term stains, and can begin to stand out in unattractive contrast to your natural, darkening teeth.
Begin the process for your important day by scheduling an appointment with your dentist. Have your teeth examined and cleaned, and learn what teeth whitening procedures would best benefit your particular smile needs. Don’t wait until the last minute, as some whitening procedures take time to reach optimal effects. Some whitening methods increase the sensitivity of your teeth or surrounding gums. Planning ahead can allow your teeth some time to recover prior to your special event.
After your professional teeth whitening, you’ll be surprised at your self-confidence. Your mood will improve as you face those around you with your best and brightest smile, and everyone you meet will sense it. Love the photos you’ll be taking for years to come, and talk to your dentist today.
Do not let another day go by without taking care of your dental needs. Request an appointment now at our Billerica dental office!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do teeth yellow over time?
Teeth are covered in enamel, a strong white coating over the internal structures of the tooth. As we age, enamel naturally wears away, and because it cannot be replaced naturally, the enamel thins and the yellow layer of dentin beneath is exposed.
Which foods stain teeth?
Beets, blueberries and blackberries can leave stains, as can tea, coffee, dark soda and red wine. Even soy sauce and balsamic vinegar can discolour your smile.
How far ahead of an event should I whiten?
Do not wait until the last minute, as some whitening procedures take time to reach optimal effect. Some methods also increase the sensitivity of teeth or surrounding gums, so planning ahead allows your teeth time to recover before your event.
Will whitening change my crowns or veneers?
No. Crowns, bridges and veneers are not affected by long-term stains and are not changed by whitening, which is why they can begin to stand out against natural teeth that have darkened.
Merry Dental, 337 Boston Rd, Billerica, MA 01821. 978-404-5400. Serving Billerica, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Burlington and Bedford.