Join us in celebrating National Teeth Whitening Day on June 17th! We are tempted to observe this innovative dental treatment for the entire month because when it comes to boosting your smile, one of the quickest and easiest ways to accomplish this is through teeth whitening! And while there are a lot of over-the-counter teeth whitening options out there, we are strong advocates of professional teeth whitening for those who want whiter, brighter teeth. This is primarily due to the effectiveness and safety of the product used.
Why Whiten Your Teeth?
You might consider whitening your teeth for a variety of reasons:
- Attending a wedding, honeymoon or graduation
- Going on a summer vacation
- Wanting to boost your self-confidence and dating life
- Having professional portraits done
- Have a job interview coming up and want to make the best first impression
- Wanting to put your best face forward every day
Causes of Tooth Stains
Perhaps your teeth aren't looking their best because it's been a while since your last professional cleaning. It could also be due to your daily habit of drinking coffee, tea, or wine. These beverages can refresh us, help us relax, or give us energy during a busy day, but they can also affect the appearance of your teeth. While tooth enamel is strong and protects the dentin and cavities beneath, it's also porous, making it vulnerable to tooth-staining agents like chromogens.
These pigmenting substances are found in red wine, along with the tannins that stain red wine, coffee, and tea. Chromogens are highly pigmented compounds that adhere to tooth enamel when mixed with similar staining agents, such as tannins. The tannins in black tea stain teeth even more than coffee, and to a lesser extent, those in white, green, and herbal teas. But even your favorite sodas, sports drinks, and alcoholic beverages are highly acidic, eroding tooth enamel and causing discoloration. The same is true for foods you love that stain teeth, such as marinara sauce, balsamic vinegar, berries, curries, and citrus fruits.
Your teeth can also become stained from frequent tobacco use, whether it's cigarettes, pipes, cigars, or chewing tobacco. Or perhaps you took antibiotics like amoxicillin, which discolored your teeth with unsightly gray or brown stains. Tooth enamel also wears down from rough brushing over the years.
Tip: Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Your teeth and gums will thank you!
Cosmetic Dentistry and Teeth Whitening
What can you do without giving up your favorite foods and drinks? Professional teeth whitening can quickly and effectively remove unsightly stains and discoloration. It whitens teeth safely by working on the enamel and underlying dentin. The results are usually immediate and dramatic, making your smile brighter and better than ever.
One of the first benefits of teeth whitening is that you'll feel better about showing off your smile. You'll feel more inclined to smile, as whiter teeth boost your self-esteem! And the more you smile at others, the more successful you'll be. Teeth whitening can even improve your mental health, as smiling releases endorphins in the brain. Teeth whitening makes you want to smile more, so you'll likely be more committed to brushing and flossing regularly. Good oral hygiene habits are a great way to maintain a healthier, more attractive smile.
Celebrate Teeth Whitening Day
Now that you know how great your smile can look with professional teeth whitening, you'll want to keep it sparkling afterward. This means getting rid of your worn-out toothbrush (when the bristles fray, it's time to replace it!). Limit foods and drinks that stain your teeth and keep up with your routine dental checkups and exams. And if you're ready to brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening, call to schedule an appointment with our dental team!