Teeth discolouration is extremely common, affecting tons of people in the UK. While individuals start with perfect white teeth as children, it does not take long for many to have noticeable yellow teeth.
Basically, yellow teeth are inevitable. Food, drinks, and the environment all lead to the yellowing of the teeth, and there is little anyone can do to prevent this inevitability. Apart from the cumulative effects of these external causes, at least two structural changes in the mouth also make teeth more likely to appear yellow with aging. These are the thinning of the tooth’s outer coating called the enamel, as well as the thickening of the layer under it, called the dentin.
An In-Depth Look at the Contributors to Tooth Discolouration
Smoking and drinking staining drinks are perhaps the most widely known contributors to yellowing teeth. Unknown to many, certain fruits and vegetables like apples and potatoes, however, also contribute to the problem.
There are also several diseases that cause teeth to turn yellow (or black or brown). Some forms of chemotherapy, such as heat radiation, as well as widely used drugs like tetracycline and doxycycline contribute to the problem as well.
These things, to some extent, are inevitable. Fortunately, there is hope even if the teeth have already lost their original whiteness.
How Tooth Whitening Works
Teeth whitening technology has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years. There are non-bleaching procedures, which rely on physical action to whiten teeth. When brushing the teeth, for instance, the mild abrasion removes the surface stains.
Most whiteners, on the other hand, use bleaching chemicals. These chemicals produce a chemical reaction when coming in contact with the enamel; this then breaks down stains. Most of the whiteners use one of two chemicals: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
At Garden View Dental Care, we offer in-office and at-home teeth whitening in Buckinghamshire that will provide results. Everyone responds differently to whitening procedures—some respond well to a simple at-home whitening kit, while those with serious discolouration may require bonding or porcelain veneers to achieve the smile they have always wanted. Our Garden View Dental Care Buckinghamshire cosmetic dentistry team can determine the right treatment for you.
Call us today for a consultation.