The holly jolly holidays are upon us, and you will want to look your best and brightest. While your festive holiday sweater is sure to light up the room, why not light up your smile by whitening your teeth? Whitening your teeth can boost your confidence, give you a younger appearance and make a positive first impression on your holiday guests.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Some people naturally have whiter or yellower teeth, but there are other factors that can contribute to a not-so-bright smile.
- Age – Did you know your teeth change color as you age? Over time, the outermost layer of enamel wears off your teeth, exposing the yellow dentin beneath.
- Diet – Certain foods and drinks can cause your teeth to discolor. Dark-colored beverages, including coffee, soda, tea and red wine contain color pigments that latch on to your enamel.
- Tobacco – The tar in tobacco is a dark-colored substance. Nicotine is colorless until it mixes with oxygen, which turns it yellowish.
- Medication – Exposure to certain medications, such as tetracycline and doxycycline, either in the womb or after birth, as teeth are developing, can cause tooth discoloration in adult teeth. Other medications can also cause tooth darkening, including certain antihistamines, antipsychotics and blood pressure medications.
The Best Teeth-Whitening Options
You have probably seen a plethora of teeth-whitening options on the store shelves. They promise bright, white teeth in as little as 24 hours. While these kits are safe and will yield some results, the bleaching agent used in these products is in a lower concentration than what your dentist will use. For the whitest, brightest teeth, enlist in the help of your dental office.
In-Office Bleaching
In-office bleaching involves your dentist applying a rubber shield or protective gel to your gums, then bleach to your teeth. In-office bleaching treatments may take only 1-3 sessions to achieve maximum whitening.
At-Home Bleaching
If you prefer whitening your teeth in the comfort of your own home, your dentist can provide you with a custom tray and bleaching solution, along with detailed instructions. You may need a few days to a few weeks to see results, but it is more effective than over-the-counter teeth-whitening agents.
If you’d like your smile to be as merry and bright as the holidays, enlist the professionals at Waller Dental for professional teeth-whitening services. Give yourself a present of whiter teeth this year. Our cosmetic dentistry team will help whiten your teeth for a bright and happy smile.