Have you noticed that your teeth do not look as pearly white as they once did? Are you able to see through the edges of your teeth? This translucent effect not only disrupts the look of your smile. It could point to a larger concern with your dental health.
Ask your dentist about this problem during your next dental check-up. They can evaluate the extent of the dental damage and help you find a way to enhance to the appearance of your teeth. Read on to learn why your teeth might appear see-through and how your dentist can fix this problem.
What Causes Translucent-Looking Teeth?
If you can see through your teeth, especially near the edges, you might have experienced enamel erosion. Your teeth feature a protective outer layer called enamel that withstands regular wear and tear. But your enamel may also thin and weaken if exposed to acidic residues or plaque.
When enamel wears down, you might notice a translucent effect that indicates the weakened portions of the tooth. Thinned enamel leaves the sensitive interior of the teeth exposed to dental dangers. And once gone, the enamel will not regrow.
You cannot restore the appearance and structure of your smile on your own. But your dentist can help you get your teeth looking and feeling their best again.
Can My Dentist Fix a See-Through Effect in My Smile?
Your dentist will evaluate the extent of the enamel damage when you attend a dental check-up at their office. While they cannot encourage enamel to regenerate, they can provide fluoride treatment that will strengthen the remaining enamel. Fluoride applied to the teeth will absorb into the enamel to fortify it against further deterioration.
This will not get rid of the translucent appearance within the teeth though. Your dentist can employ cosmetic dental solutions for this issue. They may use dental bonding to make the tooth color appear more even.
They might also give you porcelain veneers: shells that cover the teeth to build a brighter and fuller-looking smile. This treatment can also serve as a replacement for lost enamel, protecting the front of the teeth where enamel may have thinned.
Can I Prevent Tooth Enamel Erosion?
Enamel might erode for several reasons, including some factors outside of a patient’s control. But if you keep your teeth clean and free of plaque through good oral hygiene habits, you can better protect your dental structure.
This means you should brush your teeth twice each day and floss on a daily basis. Make sure you visit your dentist for routine teeth cleanings to maximize preventative dental efforts. They can also check your smile for signs of enamel damage and offer treatment before you experience irreversible aesthetic problems.
Acidic and sugary foods and drinks can also contribute to enamel erosion, so you might want to limit these items in your diet. Ask your dentist for more precautionary measures you can take to preserve your oral health.