Teeth are called pearly whites for a reason. Ideal teeth don't just look white; they have a lovely pearl-like sheen to them. Unfortunately, many people lose this quality to their teeth over the years, making their teeth look less than perfect even when they're white. If you're concerned because your teeth look dull, keep reading and you'll learn how teeth become this way and what can be done about it.
What Gives You That Pearly Glow
The pearlescent quality to teeth is actually due to the enamel of the tooth. As the outermost layer, the enamel protects your teeth from all kinds of threats. The fact that it looks pretty is just a plus!
Unfortunately, this sheen can be lost either due to damage, age, or too much wear and tear. If the enamel is weakened, it will lose that luster, making teeth look less than their best.
When It's Lost
If it weren't enough for your teeth to look less lustrous, sadly, they can also become brownish or yellow-looking when the enamel is weakened. Like the luster, the enamel on your teeth is actually what's responsible for that lovely white color. When it thins out, the other layers of your teeth start to shine through. Dentin, the next layer of the tooth, is typically either brown or yellow, so it creates a tint to the entire tooth when enamel weakens. Even if your teeth are perfectly clean, they could still look like they aren't due to an overall dullness and discoloration.
Repairing It
Whitening your teeth can be accomplished with weaker enamel, but you won't get that shine back. Instead, your best option is dental veneers.
Dental veneers can transform any tooth, no matter what condition it's in. They're made out of pearlescent porcelain that looks like a real tooth with beautiful, healthy enamel. Veneers are available from nearly all cosmetic dentists and can give you the look you want just by being attached to the front of your teeth. Unlike many other dental procedures, teeth don't have to be drilled in order for the veneers to be attached. Permanent dental adhesive is used that will last for many years to come without causing permanent damage or major changes to the teeth underneath them.
Dental veneers can give you a younger, healthier-looking smile with the pearly sheen you're looking for. If you don't want to stop at just making your teeth look white, talk to a dental office like The Smile Architects to start the process of getting dental veneers for yourself.
