Why teeth change color and how to restore their whiteness

Dentist Kristina Pishchanskaya says changes in tooth color are a natural process associated with aging as well as exposure to external factors.

According to the dentist, even with regular dental care, tooth enamel gradually loses its luster, mainly because it becomes thinner. Enamel, the outer layer of the tooth, is semi-transparent, while the yellowish dentin lies underneath. As people age, enamel wears down, making the underlying dentin increasingly visible.

Other factors can also affect tooth color, including tartar buildup, excessive consumption of coffee, tea and red wine, smoking and the development of tiny cracks in the enamel. Certain medications, dental injuries and oral diseases can also cause discoloration. For this reason, identifying the underlying cause is essential before undergoing any cosmetic dental procedure.

If discoloration is caused by surface stains, the first step is professional dental cleaning. During the procedure, a dentist removes tartar and biofilm, after which the teeth may appear noticeably brighter. This does not change their natural color but restores them to their original shade.

Professional cleaning also helps remove surface stains, reduce the risk of tooth decay and prepare the teeth for whitening treatment.

If patients remain dissatisfied with their tooth color after cleaning, in-office light-activated whitening may be considered. In this procedure, a specialized gel is activated using light under a dentist's supervision after the condition of the enamel has been assessed.

Modern techniques can lighten teeth by several shades without mechanically damaging the dental tissues. After the procedure, dentists typically provide guidance on oral care and recommend a "white diet" to help maintain the results.

"Age-related changes in tooth color are a natural process, but modern dentistry can effectively restore a beautiful smile," Pishchanskaya said. "Proper dental care helps restore the teeth's natural color, while whitening can make them look brighter and whiter."