If you notice that some of your teeth are beginning to look translucent then you may well be concerned about this. Translucent teeth can occur even if you have the best routine for your oral hygiene. If you want to put an end to issues such as this then you need to make sure that you are paying your dentist a visit on a regular basis so that they can identify the issue.
The Science Behind Translucent Teeth
Your teeth have a semi-transparent outer shell which covers the visible part of your tooth. This is known as the enamel. The second layer is semi-translucent, and it provides some tooth color. Dentin is responsible for providing the rest, which can be off-white, yellow, grey or white. Dentin does not actually extend to the edges of your teeth, so in other words, the tips are enamel only. The biting edge of your teeth might appear white, grey or in some instances, clear. When your enamel wears away, this can give you a translucent appearance. If you notice that your teeth are translucent then this means that the enamel around the edges of your teeth has worn away and this will result in transparent teeth.
Why do Some People Develop Translucent Teeth?
Translucent teeth usually happen as the result of thin enamel. There are certain conditions that can also affect the strength of your enamel, resulting in the translucent appearance. This can include enamel hypoplasia. This is a genetic condition which can lead to weak or even chalky enamel. There is also celiac disease. Many people assume that this affects the gastrointestinal tract, but it also contributes to weakened tooth enamel as well. Individuals who have this disease will often find that they have banding, pitting and translucent tooth enamel as well. On top of this, you may find that you end up having reoccurring canker sores, a red shiny tongue and a dry mouth. Lastly, there’s bulimia. This is an eating disorder and it affects the body image. It can be associated with things such as self-purging and vomiting. Teeth that are often exposed to stomach acid can experience eroded enamel.
Symptoms of Translucent Teeth
Many of the symptoms that are commonly associated with translucent teeth are also signs of enamel erosion. You may find that you have sensitivity to sweet or acidic foods and that you also experience slight tooth pain. The visual signs include the biting edge of the tooth being rough or jagged. A dry mouth is also a sign, as saliva is responsible for providing enzymes which help to fight off any cavities. If you see that your teeth are transparent or translucent then you need to try and seek dental help immediately.
How to Fix Translucent Teeth
There are many treatment options available if you struggle with see-through teeth. Some of them include:
Veneers
A veneer is a hard shell that is designed to sit on the front of a tooth. These shells can easily hide misshapen or discolored teeth. Veneers will also protect the teeth underneath from enamel erosion.
Bonding
During this process, you will have a composite resin which is designed to match your teeth. The resin will be molded and then shaped to cover the teeth.
Crowns
A crown may also be recommended as a way for you to protect and restore the appearance of your teeth. Crowns can be porcelain, or they can be ceramic. They fit over the top of the tooth and they help to boost the overall structure.
Enamel Remineralization
This involves filling the teeth with a mixture, which helps the enamel to repair itself.
How to Stop Enamel Erosion
As always, one of the best ways for you to try and stop enamel erosion would be for you to brush your teeth twice a day. You need to make sure that you brush for a total of two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is essential if you want to repair your teeth because it helps you to boost the health of your enamel. In addition to this, you need to make sure that you floss at least once every day as well. You need to do this while maintaining proper oral hygiene. If you do this then you will soon find that you see a huge improvement to your teeth.
If you are finding it hard to repair your tooth enamel even by taking all of these steps, then you need to talk with your dentist to see if they can give you the help you need.
