Behavioral experts, researchers, and psychologists all agree that we are very quick to form first impressions. In mere seconds of meeting, we are making assumptions about others before words have even been spoken. Our smiles do a lot of talking for us as we interact with other people. To that end, the smile is an important part of how we present ourselves, and how we are viewed by others.
Maintaining a healthy, attractive smile is really quite easy. With a customized plan for teeth whitening, designed by your Redlands dentist, you will be able to accomplish your goals for a beautiful smile. Professional whitening has a powerful effect on stains, which can be caused by a number of factors.
Hygiene
The daily care of teeth and gums is important to oral health, as these practices are intended to prevent plaque buildup on the teeth. Although plaque is a colorless, sticky substance that coats teeth, its presence often makes teeth look dingy and dull. Brushing at least twice a day, if not after every meal, will keep teeth free of plaque and looking brighter and shinier longer. Due to other factors affecting the color of teeth, daily oral care may not be sufficient to avoid discoloration completely.
Food and drink
What we consume on a daily basis has the largest effect on the smile. Many foods are known to cause stains, including tea, coffee, and red wine. What many people don’t realize is that acidic foods such as vinegar dressings and pickles also affect the color of teeth, as do common beverages like colas and fruit juice. The tiny molecules of the foods we eat can settle on the enamel and move into deeper layers over time, which is one reason we may notice discoloration as we get older.
Discoloration has a large impact on how we feel about our smiles. Your dentist can devise a whitening plan that will address the causes of discoloration effectively. In our office, we treat patients with safe and effective whitener based on carbamide peroxide, which lifts stains for a naturally beautiful effect.
You can love your smile. Contact us today to learn more about teeth whitening.