You probably expect to get gray hair at some point; it is a natural part of the aging process, and many people already see hints of silver in their 30s or 40s. But gray teeth?! That is a completely different story. If you find that your teeth are leaning toward a grayish hue, you may wonder why they look that way and what your cosmetic dentist can do to help brighten up your smile. This blog post provides some helpful information.
Genetics
One potential cause of gray teeth lies in your genes. Some people naturally have teeth that are more opaque or have a slight gray tint, which can be inherited from their parents. The color of your enamel and dentin — the two main layers of your teeth — are both influenced by genetics. If your family members have grayish teeth, therefore, you may find yourself with a similar shade. Although genetics cannot be changed, your dentist can offer cosmetic solutions to help improve the appearance of your smile, such as veneers or dental bonding.
Another hereditary factor that might contribute to gray teeth is a rare disorder called dentinogenesis imperfecta. It causes teeth to have a blue-gray color and makes them more prone to breakage. Depending on the severity of this condition, it might be treatable with veneers or other restorations. If the teeth are extremely weak, though, they might need to be replaced.
Medications
Certain medications, especially those taken during childhood while your teeth are still developing, can lead to gray discoloration. A well-known example is tetracycline antibiotics, which, when taken by pregnant women or young children, can cause teeth to develop a gray or bluish hue. Other medicines, such as some antihistamines or high blood pressure medications, may also contribute to changes in tooth color. If medications are the cause of your lackluster smile, your dentist might recommend professional whitening treatments or dental veneers to mask the discoloration and restore a natural look to your teeth.
Dead Teeth
Trauma or injury to a tooth can sometimes cause it to die, which means the nerve and blood supply within the tooth have been damaged or lost. When this occurs, the tooth may gradually take on a grayish or dull appearance. If you notice one tooth in particular turning gray, it could be a sign that the tooth is no longer viable. Your general dentist will likely evaluate the health of the tooth and may suggest root canal therapy and a crown. If the damage to the tooth is particularly bad, it might need to be extracted and replaced by a dental implant.
Metal Dental Restorations
Older dental restorations that contain metal, such as silver amalgam fillings or metal crowns, can sometimes cause a grayish tint to appear in your teeth or gums over time. This discoloration happens when metal ions leach into the surrounding tooth structure or gum tissue. If your gray teeth are linked to metal restorations, your dentist may advise replacing them with newer, tooth-colored materials like composite resin or porcelain.
Aging
Some people find that their teeth turn gray with the natural passage of time. While this might not signal a severe dental problem, it does present an aesthetic challenge. Teeth whitening or restorations may be the best solution.
Gray teeth are a bummer! Talk to a qualified dentist to learn about your options for brightening your smile.
Meet the Practice
At Hanford Family Dental Center in Hanford, CA, our team is pleased to provide a range of solutions for gray teeth, including veneers, teeth whitening, metal-free restorations, and more. If you are unhappy with the color of your smile, we are ready to talk to you about your treatment options. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our office at 559-530-8080.