Are Your Teeth Becoming Translucent? 5 Things You Should Know
Wondering why your teeth are beginning to appear translucent around the edges? We’re here to help. Here are five things you need to know about the cause of translucent teeth and how to fix them.
1. Translucency occurs as a result of enamel breakdown.
First thing you need to know: your teeth are comprised of layers. The white outermost layer, your dental enamel, is the semi-translucent protective layer of your teeth. The second layer is known as the dentin, which can look off-white, yellow, or even grey. Both of these layers combined are responsible for the color of your teeth. Therefore, when your dental enamel begins to wear down, you primarily see the dentin layer underneath. As it turns out, the dentin layer does not extend all the way to the edge of your teeth, which is why the tips of your teeth begin to look translucent as the enamel breaks away.
2. There are a number of reasons your dental enamel could be wearing down.
One of the most common reasons for transluceny of the teeth is acid erosion. This can either result from eating certain foods, morning sickness, bulimia, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal issues. Other, lesser known reasons for teeth translucency are Celiac disease (which causes issues with enamel development) and Enamel Hypoplasia. Enamel Hypoplasia is a condition that can cause the rapid degeneration of dental enamel which, in rare cases, can cause enamel to not form at all.
3. Unfortunately, this can have an impact on your oral health.
If you have translucent teeth, your oral health can be affected. For starters, enamel breakdown is often accompanied by dental sensitivity. This can make it difficult to eat hot or cold foods. Your teeth may also be at risk of damage as a result of enamel breakdown, meaning even something as simple as brushing your teeth could leave lasting damage to your teeth.
4. Prevention is key!
Unfortunately, certain causes of teeth translucency cannot be prevented, such as Celiac disease or Enamel Hypoplasia. However, you can take strides toward minimizing your acid exposure in order to prevent further enamel breakdown. For example, try to eliminate highly acidic and sugary foods and beverages from your diet—including soda, coffee, citrus fruits, and candy. When consuming acidic foods, simply rinse your mouth with water afterwards—make sure not to brush immediately as this can wear down your enamel even further. Finally, if you’re dealing with health concerns like gastrointestinal issues, be sure to visit your doctor to find a solution that works for you.
5. Your dentist can help.
Certain cosmetic treatments are able to restore the appearance of your teeth, including veneers, bonding, and crowns. Enamel remineralization procedures can even fortify your dental enamel by inserting minerals into the pores of the enamel, which makes your teeth both whiter and stronger.
If you are struggling with translucent teeth, your dentist can help! Call Hinsdale Dental today to set up your next appointment.
Return to Blog