Teeth Whitening is Safe
Contrary to popular belief, teeth whitening does not destroy enamel. Many of the complications associated with teeth whitening are due to people misusing over the counter whitening products. In fact, professional whitening agents are made from either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When these chemicals react with the discolored molecules, they simply break down into the water and are safely absorbed by the body. To learn more about how teeth whitening works, see “How Teeth Whitening Works”.
Teeth Whitening Can Save Your Enamel
Enamel loss can occur for many reasons, but one reason is from brushing too hard. People who believe their teeth are stained or discolored tend to have a harder brushing technique because they are inadvertently trying to remove these stains or get their teeth clean. However this does more harm than good because stains cannot be removed this way, but enamel can. Over brushing can also cause gum recession to occur, making your teeth look larger than usual. People who have their teeth whitened generally view their teeth as being clean and do not brush hard as a result. Proper brushing techniques works to preserve the enamel.
Teeth Whitening is a Self-Esteem Boost
Having a whiter and brighter smile is a huge boost for your self-esteem. After having their teeth whitened, people are more likely to smile often. Smiling often makes you feel happier overall, however it also allows others to perceive you as being more confident, friendly, and successful. There have also been studies that have indicated people who smile more and have higher self-esteem are more likely to get promoted or experience other workplace success.
Teeth Whitening Can Make You Look Younger
While many people associate wrinkles with old age, tooth color is another common indicator of age. In fact, as we age our enamel becomes thinner and allows the yellowish dentin to show through. This is why older individuals usually have teeth that are more yellow in color. However, whitening your teeth makes you appear younger and can even take attention away from wrinkles. Not only does whitening your teeth brighten your face, but brighter teeth signal youth.
Teeth Whitening Can Help You Quit Smoking
While this may not work for everyone, it can work for some. People who have severe stains as a result of exposure to the tar and nicotine in cigarettes and want to quit, may be able to use teeth whitening as a positive incentive. After committing to having their teeth whitened, they are less likely to return to smoking for fear of ruining their hard-earned results.
At the end of the day, there are many reasons why teeth whitening is one of the best cosmetic dental treatments. Not only is the procedure easy, affordable, and pain-free, but it is highly effective and only requires a single office visit. Not only that, but the effects of only 30-60 minutes can have a huge impact on your self-image and your life.
Michael C. Shuck graduated from the College of William and Mary with a bachelor of science in Biology. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Medical College of Virginia, Cum Laude. He takes part in many volunteer outreach events, including Virginia’s Mission of Mercy project, Virginia Special Olympics, Give Kids a Smile, and the Jamaica Project. Dr. Shuck also is a regular volunteer at Williamsburg’s Olde Towne Medical Center. He actively participates with Virginia’s Donated Dental Service. Dr. Shuck has been a practicing dentist in the Williamsburg, Virginia area since 2007.
