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 solid proponents of professional teeth whitening for those who love having whiter, brighter teeth. It is mainly because of the effectiveness and safety of the product being 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

Tooth Staining Culprits

Maybe your teeth are less than stellar because it has been a while since you have gotten your teeth cleaned. Perhaps it is from your daily coffee, tea, or wine habit. These beverages can refresh our mood, help us relax, or keep us powering through a busy day, but they can also take a toll on your teeth’s appearance. While tooth enamel is strong and protects your dentin and tooth chambers below it, it is also porous, making it vulnerable to tooth staining agents like chromogens.

These pigment-creating substances are found in red wine along with staining tannins in red wine, coffee and tea. Chromogens are highly pigmented compounds that cling to tooth enamel when they mix with similar stain-causing agents like tannins. Tannins in black tea stain teeth even more than coffee and, to a lesser extent, in white, green, and herbal teas. But even your favorite soda, sports drink, and alcohol are highly acidic, eroding tooth enamel and leading to discoloration. The same goes for the tooth-staining foods you love, like marinara sauce, balsamic vinegar, berries, curry, and citrus.

Your teeth can also stain because of frequent tobacco use, whether it is cigarettes, pipes, cigars, or chewing tobacco. Or maybe you took antibiotics like tetracycline that discolored your teeth with unsightly gray or brown stains. There is also wear and tear on tooth enamel from brushing harshly over the years.

Tip: Brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Your teeth and gums will thank you!

Cosmetic Dentistry and Teeth Whitening

So, what can a person do without giving up their favorite foods and beverages? Professional teeth whitening can quickly and effectively get rid of unsightly tooth stains and discoloration. It safely bleaches teeth by targeting the enamel and the dentin layer underneath it. The results are often immediate and dramatic, making your smile look brighter and better than ever.

One of the first things teeth whitening can do is make you feel better about showing off your smile. You will feel like smiling more as whiter-looking teeth make your self-confidence skyrocket! And the more you smile around others, the greater your success. Teeth whitening can even boost your mental health because smiling releases your brain’s endorphins! Teeth whitening makes you want to smile more, so you will likely feel more committed to brushing and flossing diligently. Good oral hygiene habits are a great way to keep your smile healthier and more appealing!

Celebrate Teeth Whitening Day

Now that you know how great your smile can look with professional teeth whitening, you will want to keep them nice after you do. It means getting rid of your worn-out toothbrush (once the bristles fray, it is time to replace it!). Limit the foods and drinks that stain your teeth, and keep up on all routine dental checkups and exams! And if you are inspired to brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening, call to schedule an appointment with our dental team!