There are many cosmetic dental treatments available to help improve the appearance of your smile. However, some of these treatments can be time consuming and may even require you to augment your natural tooth structure. Once the tooth structure has been altered, the treatment is considered to be permanent or irreversible.
However, not all cosmetic dental treatments involve modifying natural tooth enamel and sitting in the dentist’s chair for hours. In fact, teeth whitening is one of the most popular types of cosmetic dental treatments for a variety of reasons. Here are ten reasons why teeth whitening is one of the best cosmetic dental treatments:
Teeth Whitening is Easy
Professional teeth whitening is one of the easiest dental procedures. The treatment begins with a professional teeth cleaning to remove all plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. This ensures that the whitening agent will be applied evenly. Next, your teeth will be isolated from your gums and the whitening agent will be brushed onto the surface of your teeth.
Teeth Whitening is Quick
The average time for most teeth whitening treatments is 30-60 minutes. However, the whitening agent keeps working for up to 24 hours after its initial application. This means that even though it is only applied to your teeth for 30-60 minutes, it will continue to whiten your teeth for the next 24 hours while you carry on with your life.
Teeth Whitening is Affordable
Unlike other cosmetic dental treatments that can be quite expensive, teeth whitening is priced at the lower end of the spectrum. The total cost will depend upon the type of whitening agent used and the number of treatments required for the desired results.
Teeth Whitening Removes Years of Stains
The whitening agents used in professional teeth whitening procedures are stronger than those in over the counter whitening products. Professional whitening agents work by breaking the bonds of discolored molecules in the enamel and dentin layers of your teeth. Because of this, they are able to effectively remove stains caused by foods, beverages, age, medications, and smoking.
Teeth Whitening Can Make You Happier
When you have a smile you are proud of, you will inevitably smile more. Studies show that people who smile more report higher overall happiness levels than people who don’t smile often. Not only will you feel happier, but you will become a source of happiness to those around you. Smiling is contagious and everyone will want to catch your smile after having your teeth whitened.
To find out more about teeth whitening, see “Teeth Whitening” or Part 2 of “10 Reasons Why Teeth Whitening is One of the Best Cosmetic Dental Treatments”.
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.
