One of the first things people notice about you is the quality of your smile, but if your teeth are riddled with stains, you might not make a good impression. Studies show that dazzlingly bright teeth are usually considered more attractive because it’s easy to assume that they must be healthy if you don’t see spots or blemishes.
However, that’s not always the case. Continue reading to learn more how to safely lighten your grin while preserving your dental condition!
What Color Are Teeth, Really?
Many falsely believe that their teeth must be flawed if they appear somewhat stained. This may be partly because some common dental problems can affect their appearance. For instance, cavities can cause murky spots in your enamel, and progressive periodontal disease leads to receding gums that reveal more of your darker roots.
That doesn’t mean that only bright teeth are healthy, though. You might be surprised to learn that perfectly healthy teeth are not naturally snowy white. Although the outermost layer of enamel is indeed a bluish-white hue, the underlying dentin is more yellow. This underlying shade shines through to translucent enamel, giving your pearly whites an ivory tone.
How Can I Safely Brighten My Grin?
Plenty of patients have turned to over-the-counter whitening products to try to address dental discoloration only to regret the decision later. Commercially available options often contain diluted bleaching agents that don’t provide the desired outcome. Plus, they rely on one-size-fits-all applicator strips or trays that lead to errors in application.
For instance, you might place bleach on your gums and develop sensitivity. Not only that, but if you have hidden tooth decay, putting harsh chemicals on top of it can cause a painful reaction that might require an emergency dental appointment.
To avoid potential problems, it’s best to whiten your teeth with your dentist. They’ll examine your mouth first to ensure no cavities or gum disease interfere. Then, they’ll give you all the supplies you need to brighten your grin from home. They’ll include ultra-concentrated gels intended to mitigate potential discomfort along with custom-fitted trays for professional results from your living room.
How Can I Maintain My Ideal Shade?
Once you’ve finally achieved the right color, you can extend its longevity by brushing and flossing twice daily. This removes plaque and bacteria that give pigmented particles something to cling to.
Also, scheduling a regular checkup and cleaning with your dentist every six months allows them to monitor your condition and polish away more recent surface stains to protect and preserve your grin.
Your dentist can help you achieve the perfect shade without harming your dental health!
Meet the Author
Dr. Bradford Young has 20+ years of experience helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania Dental School and is a trusted member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. He provides a wide range of services to conveniently meet all your family’s dental care needs under one roof. Then, he utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to improve your comfort while delivering accurate treatment results. For a whiter smile, you can request a cosmetic consultation on the website or call (610) 439-1363.