Is Tooth Discoloration Hereditary? 

If you’re like some people, it may seem like your teeth have always been discolored or yellow. In fact, even if you eat a bland diet, don’t smoke, and take excellent care of them, your pearly whites may not exactly be as bright and lustrous as you’d like. In cases like this, genetics could be to blame. Here’s a closer look at what could be behind the discoloration, and how cosmetic dentistry can help, even if it ‘runs in the family’!

How Genetics Affect Tooth Shade

Even though your genes can’t decide which foods you enjoy or how well you take care of your teeth, they can certainly influence their color. That’s because genetics can determine how translucent the outermost layer of your teeth, the enamel, is. Unfortunately, because the dentin (the layer below) is naturally yellow tinged, if your enamel is very transparent your teeth might appear discolored even if they’re clean and aren’t stained.

Additionally, your tooth shade can be determined by hereditary conditions like amelogenesis imperfecta which affects the development of the enamel, making it appear yellow, gray, or brown; or by dentogenesis imperfecta, which may interfere with the growth of your dentin and make your teeth appear discolored or even translucent.

Can I Treat Genetic Tooth Discoloration?

Although it can be difficult to eliminate discoloration caused by genetics, your dentist has several cosmetic solutions that may be able to help. Professional whitening is a popular option and can penetrate the tooth enamel to remove up to eight shades of discoloration.

Other treatments include cosmetic dental bonding, which can cover stained teeth using the same durable composite resin used in tooth-colored fillings, or porcelain veneers, which cement to the visible portions of the teeth to improve the shade, shape, size and even spacing of the teeth. They can even help prevent future stains from forming. Your dentist will be happy to help you choose the right option to give you the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve, based on the cause of your stains and your individual shade goals.

Remember, while genetics may play a role in the color of your smile, the good news is that you don’t have to settle for less you deserve with cosmetic dentistry. To learn more about how you can have a whiter, brighter grin, schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry with your dentist today!

About Dr. Shively

Dr. Kevin Shively earned his dental doctorate at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has since then taken well over 600 hours of continuing education. He is currently completing training at the prestigious Dawson Academy. To schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry, please visit our website or call 806-698-8660.