Have you started to notice that your teeth are becoming transparent? While it may be nothing serious, it could be an indication of enamel loss which can lead to further complications. If you are wondering ‘why are my teeth see-through?’, this article is for you.
What are translucent teeth?
Enamel is the hard, protective outer-layer of your teeth, shielding the lower, more vulnerable inner layers of your teeth. When enamel is worn down for whatever reason, your teeth may appear transparent.
What causes teeth to look translucent?
As we have seen, transparent teeth are caused by enamel erosion. If you have noticed your teeth are becoming transparent, potential causes of the enamel erosion causing this include:
- Celiac disease¹: While Celiac disease is defined by gastronomic consequences when eating gluten, it also has a big effect on teeth by causing enamel to be poorly developed. Celiac disease is often diagnosed in adulthood, but it is also very common in children².
- Enamel hypoplasia³: This is a defect that causes a lesser quality of enamel, which can appear as a white, brown, or yellow spot. It can also have pits, grooves, or even missing bits of enamel. There are numerous causes including vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition, morning sickness, smoking and drug use.
- Acidic erosion: Consuming acidic foods and drinks can speed-up enamel erosion, causing transparent teeth. Particularly acidic foods and drinks include fizzy drinks, red wine, and sugary foods such as sweets.
- Dry mouth⁴: Dry mouth, which may be caused by certain medical conditions, the medications you take, or aging, can contribute to transparent teeth. With a loss of saliva in your mouth, the pH balance in your mouth may become more acidic, exposing your teeth to erosion.
Read this article for more information around enamel erosion, and always seek professional advice from your dentist if you are worried about your teeth.
What treatments are there to fix translucent teeth?
While there is no transparent teeth cure, to prevent further damage to your teeth, translucent teeth treatments may be needed. Your dentist may recommend one of the following treatments:
- Veneers: Veneers are placed on top of your teeth and so help to protect against further enamel erosion.
- Bonding: This type of translucent teeth treatment is used for fixing discolouration and filling chips, fractures or gaps between teeth. It works through a composite resin being attached to a tooth and shaped to restore its original appearance. It appears natural as the colour of the resin is matched to the colour of the teeth, before being hardened and polished.
- Crowns: Like veneers, crowns are added on top of your teeth to provide protection for the enamel.
The most effective ways to prevent translucent teeth
Enamel-loss is permanent, and so one of the main ways to fix translucent teeth is to prevent further enamel erosion. Ways to prevent enamel erosion, and therefore prevent translucent teeth, include:
- Regularly drinking water or chewing a xylitol sugar-free gum⁵ to help boost saliva production.
- Using a straw when drinking sugary drinks to help reduce tooth exposure.
- Finishing a meal with a glass of milk or a piece of cheese to absorb acids.
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily using gentle, circular motions.
- Using a toothpaste designed to protect and strengthen enamel. REGENERATE Enamel Science™ toothpaste is powered by an exclusive and clinically proven NR-5™ technology; NR-5 helps to regenerate tooth enamel mineral*, reversing the early enamel erosion process, keeping teeth healthy and strong.
Knowing the causes of translucent teeth and the ways to prevent it is a great way to keep your teeth and your enamel strong. Additionally, visiting the dentist twice a year will not only mean that they can spot any early signs of translucent teeth but will also allow you to get the best, most personal care and advice for your teeth.
*Acts on early invisible stages of enamel erosion by restoring its mineral content and micro hardness with regular use. Clinically proven.
The advice in this article does not constitute medical advice; it is solely available for information purposes. We recommend that you consult your dentist If you are experiencing any dental problems.
Sources:
1 NIH - Dental Enamel Defects and Celiac Disease
2 Coeliac Organisation – Coeliac Disease in Children
5 NCBI – The Effect of Xylitol on Dental Caries and Oral Flora
