TRICK. White teeth can still be hiding infections or cavities, so regardless of how your teeth look it’s still critical to visit the dentist twice a year. While discoloration can be a sign of unhealthy teeth, it isn’t always the case. Teeth do discolor as we age, which also doesn’t necessarily mean your oral health is worsening, and for those who want whiter teeth, we can address the issue with in-office whitening, dental bonding or porcelain veneers. More important than the color of your teeth in diagnosing a dental health issue are the pinkness and firmness of your gums. Red, swollen gums point to a problem.