Why Are My Teeth Losing Their Whiteness as I Get Older?

Gray hair and wrinkles are usually the first things people think of when it comes to the aging process. But as you age, you might have started to notice changes to your teeth and gums. Even if your diet and oral hygiene routine haven’t changed, the aging process can play a role in the whiteness of your teeth. 

Several factors can affect your oral health and how bright your teeth look as you age. Our prosthodontist Dr. Ramin Mahallati and our team at the Center for Implant & Esthetic Dentistry offer a range of restorative and cosmetic dentistry services at our office in Beverly Hills, California, to keep your smile bright.

Why teeth look less white as you get older

If your teeth look yellow or have lost their whiteness over time, even if your oral hygiene, diet, and lifestyle haven’t changed, there’s a logical explanation! 

You’ve probably heard that the body produces less collagen as you get older, which causes your skin to become less firm and develop fine lines and wrinkles. A similar process happens with your teeth. With age, the outer enamel layer gets thinner, exposing the dentin layer beneath and making your teeth more vulnerable to stains and discoloration. The dentin layer also expands with age, which can make your teeth look darker and less white than when you were younger.

Another common culprit is medication. Certain medications can stain your teeth, so if you’ve started a new prescription, you might notice the effects on your teeth.

Genetics and family history also play a role in everything from your risk of developing gum disease to the whiteness of your teeth. 

How to keep your teeth white as you get older

Optimal oral hygiene, regular dental exams and cleanings, and a healthy diet and lifestyle are the most essential factors in maintaining healthy teeth and gums, especially as you age. If it’s been more than six months since your last dental exam, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. 

Let us know if you’re taking any medication or have concerns about your oral health. There are several options to make your teeth white again. Depending on the type and cause of the discoloration, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments to instantly whiten your smile by several shades.

Some types of stains and discolorations can’t be improved with teeth whitening treatments, so Dr. Mahallati and our team may recommend porcelain veneers instead to whiten and strengthen your teeth.

The most important thing to remember is that it’s never too late to fix your smile and improve your oral health at any age!

For more information about professional teeth whitening and the cosmetic dentistry services we offer, contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahallati at our office in Beverly Hills.