Many of the teeth-whitening advertisem*nts we see in magazines and on TV highlight glamorous young people laughing and smiling. It is no wonder we are left confused about who can and who can not whiten their teeth. The fact is, whitening aging yellow teeth can be beneficial for many people when done responsibly and correctly.
While we can face a slew of senior dental concerns that come naturally with the process of aging, some senior citizens find themselves most concerned with whitening aging yellow teeth. Dentistry for seniors uses American Dental Association, or ADA, recommendations to advise seniors on best practices for teeth whitening when it is the desired goal.
Why Do Our Teeth Yellow As We Age?
If you are interested in tooth whitening or have questions about the aging of your teeth, you may be curious as to why teeth yellow over time and as you age. Our teeth are made up of two layers. The first layer is called dentin. Dentin is the inner layer of the nerve and blood supply.
The second layer is called enamel. Enamel is the outer layer and is made up of pure minerals. Tooth enamel is actually the hardest substance in our bodies. It is made of pure calcium and phosphorus crystals. The phosphorus crystals of our enamel reflect and refract light. This is what causes teeth to have some amount of translucence.
Over time, teeth will yellow as proteins lodge themselves in your enamel and change the way the light moves through the crystals. This is a natural process and even those who are dedicated to thorough brushing will experience yellowing teeth over time and with age.
Whitening Aging Yellow Teeth: What to Consider
Dentistry for seniors suggests tooth whitening can be done at any age of adulthood. Tooth whitening products remove built-up stains and brighten the enamel. They are affordable and easy-to-use solutions to the problem of aging yellow teeth. There are, however, a few extra considerations to make as a senior if you are considering whitening treatments.
Whitening Toothpaste
As we discussed, proteins that lodge themselves into your enamel and change the way the crystals of your enamel reflect light are responsible for yellowing teeth. Whitening yellowing teeth can be achieved through the use of bleaching trays or whitening toothpaste. Most whitening toothpaste brands have low-concentration bleach in them. This approach can work but takes an extended period of time to show a change in the color of your teeth.
Bleaching Trays
Bleaching trays can be purchased from a dentist or over the counter. Unlike bleaching toothpaste, these bleaching trays contain a highly concentrated type of hydrogen peroxide. It is recommended that you get your bleaching trays from the dentist because the trays dental professionals provide can be made in a lab and customized to fit your mouth precisely. This is a faster option for whitening yellowing teeth.
Whitening aging yellow teeth is one of many dental services seniors are asking about. However, seniors need to consider their overall oral health when making decisions about whitening. This is another reason it is best to see your dentist rather than using over the counter whitening products. Seniors with sensitive gum tissue and dry mouth may want to take caution as whitening can irritate those symptoms. Tooth decay is a common problem in seniors and needs to be addressed by a dentist before whitening can be performed safely.
Tooth Sensitivity
Anyone who is interested in whitening should know that teeth can become very sensitive while bleaching. It is important to avoid liquids such as coffee and red wine during the whitening process. With an effective process designed by your dentist, you can see results within one week. The prevalent myth that teeth whitening weekend your tooth enamel is simply not true. Teeth bleaching needs to be done responsibly and is best done when overseen by your dentist.
According to the ADA, it is best to have your teeth whitened professionally rather than using store-bought products on your own at home. More than likely, your dentist is highly trained in cosmetic tooth whitening. It is a common practice for many adults and your dentist can help you decide on the right way to proceed.
Professional Dentistry for Seniors
If you want to whiten aging yellow teeth, you should make an appointment and head to your dentist’s office. This option is a bit more expensive than purchasing tubes of toothpaste and packages of whitening trays from the store, but it is safer and more effective overall. An experienced professional who practices dentistry for seniors will be able to assess any underlying health problems before you begin treatment. If you have problems that prevent you from whitening right away, your dental pro will advise you on those issues.
You can have a consultation with your dentist and determine the best way to proceed as well as get an estimate for the cost of the whitening. Following your dentist’s recommendations regarding using your whitening trays or touch-up kit will help you brighten your teeth and avoid damaging your enamel. When in doubt, turn to the senior dental care professionals at Cano Health. Contact us today.
FAQs
Dentistry for seniors suggests tooth whitening can be done at any age of adulthood. Tooth whitening products remove built-up stains and brighten the enamel.
Can 70 year old teeth be whitened? ›
Teeth whitening treatments are for everyone – there's no age limit to having any kind of cosmetic dental treatments, so it doesn't matter if you're 26 or 62 or older, if you want whiter teeth, your age is not going to prevent it from happening.
Can you whiten teeth that are yellow with age? ›
It's natural for teeth to appear darker as they age, but a bleaching product with hydrogen peroxide or urea peroxide can help turn back the clock – and a whitening toothpaste is an easy way to get a jump-start.
How can I make my old yellow teeth white again? ›
Remedies for yellow teeth
- Brushing your teeth. Your first plan of action should be to brush your teeth more often and in the correct manner. ...
- Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. ...
- Coconut oil pulling. ...
- Apple cider vinegar. ...
- Lemon, orange, or banana peels. ...
- Activated charcoal. ...
- Eating fruits and vegetables with a higher water content.
Fortunately, there is no age limit for teeth whitening. Seniors and young adults alike can get their teeth whitened and enjoy a brighter smile. Here's everything seniors should know about the procedure.
What is the best teeth whitening method for seniors? ›
Bleaching Trays
Compared to commercial products, whitening trays from your dentist are stronger and much safer for seniors in particular. As you age, your gums and teeth can become more sensitive. Your dentist can first evaluate your oral health to determine if you are eligible to receive teeth whitening.
How can I whiten my 80 year olds teeth? ›
If you want to whiten aging yellow teeth, you should make an appointment and head to your dentist's office. This option is a bit more expensive than purchasing tubes of toothpaste and packages of whitening trays from the store, but it is safer and more effective overall.
Can yellow teeth be permanently whitened? ›
Even though professional teeth whitening has incredible success rates, it does not offer permanent results. Your teeth will remain white for about 6 – 12 months before you need retreatment. The results last longer if you intentionally care for your teeth to maintain their whiteness and brightness.
How to whiten yellow teeth naturally? ›
The following strategies may help whiten teeth:
- Making dietary changes. Eliminating foods that mark the teeth can prevent further staining. ...
- Trying oil pulling. ...
- Brushing with baking soda. ...
- Using hydrogen peroxide. ...
- Whitening with fruit. ...
- Chewing high fiber foods.
Whitening toothpaste may help reduce yellowing of the teeth and improve whiteness. These products contain stronger ingredients than standard toothpaste, helping to remove tough food stains. Whitening toothpaste does not contain bleach but may contain a small amount of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide.
#1 – Try toothpaste sea salt baking soda and lemon juice
Brush your teeth with this mixture for four to five minutes. You'll see the difference in just one use but don't get too excited. That immediate result is due to the fact that this treatment is POTENT! You can use this method only once every two months.
What vitamin deficiency causes yellow teeth? ›
In adults, low vitamin D status can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Does vitamin D deficiency cause yellow teeth? Yes, vitamin D deficiency can show up as yellow teeth. Yellow or brown spots on teeth are a symptom of rickets, a condition caused by chronic low levels of vitamin D.
Why won't my yellow teeth whiten? ›
Intrinsic Stains
They can be caused by factors like trauma, excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, or certain medications. Since teeth whitening treatments primarily target the outer layer of the teeth, they may have limited effectiveness in removing these deeper stains.
Who should not whiten their teeth? ›
There isn't much safety data on teeth whitening for pregnant or breastfeeding women. And these groups are more likely to have inflamed gums and sensitivity after whitening due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. Children under the age of 16 also shouldn't use teeth whiteners without the guidance of a dentist.
What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›
Here are a few to consider: Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.
Who is not a good candidate for teeth whitening? ›
Patients with the following conditions or circ*mstances may not be the best candidates: Pregnant and lactating women. People who have restorations such as fillings, implants, crowns and dental bridges. Children under 16 years of age.
Am I too old for teeth whitening? ›
Few tooth whitening products come with upper age limits. If you're older than 18, and your mouth is in good health, you can use almost any solution to help you find a brighter, whiter smile. But many older people have dental health issues that can stand in the way of tooth whitening, including: Trauma.
Why is there an age limit for teeth whitening? ›
Teeth whitening for kids at an early age increases their likelihood of having tooth sensitivity and makes them more prone to cavities and soreness.
What teeth Cannot be whitened? ›
If your teeth have any signs of decay or worn enamel, then you may also experience sensitivity if you undertake treatment. Additionally, you should note that if you have crowns or veneers, then these will not be whitened by the teeth whitening process.
Can old brown teeth be whitened? ›
The short answer is yes and there's a wide range of solutions available. We mentioned that over-the-counter products might do the trick (i.e. the do-it-yourself approach) and that you can do several things to somehow lighten the brown colour and make your smile naturally whiter.
Dentistry for seniors suggests tooth whitening can be done at any age of adulthood. Tooth whitening products remove built-up stains and brighten the enamel. They are affordable and easy-to-use solutions to the problem of aging yellow teeth. There are, however, a few extra considerations to make as a senior if you are considering whitening treatments.