Did you know that your smile plays a key role in boosting your confidence? For many, a smile with discoloured teeth can damage self-esteem and impact on mental health.

We all enjoy tea, coffee and other drinks that can stain our teeth over time. But while we enjoy these things, the long term effects of discoloured teeth can be an issue. Many people learn to live with their discoloured teeth, and perhaps give up their favourite drinks to prevent further issues, however teeth whitening can help.

Let’s take a look at dental care and maintenance of oral health, and how teeth whitening plays a role.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening in the process of lightening the colour of your teeth without removing the protective surface. The term does get used interchangeably with teeth bleaching, however they are two separate processes:

• Teeth whitening lightens the yellow stains on your teeth and is an important part of oral health.
• Teeth bleaching is the whitening of the teeth beyond their natural colour and is usually done for cosmetic reasons.

There are a number of different whitening products on the market, including pastes, gels, rinses, strips, and trays, all used to lighten the existing colour on your teeth by several shades. However, for the best results, a trip to Creastmead Dental should be your first stop. A trained and experienced dentist can ensure your teeth are healthy and you are on top of your oral health, before undertaking a professional lighting process.

Why Do You Need Teeth Whitening?

There are two reasons people have their teeth whitened – part of an ongoing dental treatment or for cosmetic purposes. If you are having ongoing dental treatment such as fillings, a root cancal, bonding, removal of your wisdom teeth, braces or implants, you may also like to have your teeth whitened while in the dentist’s chair.

When it comes to cosmetic whitening, there are a few reasons why people undergo this treatment.

Boosts Self-Confidence

There are people who will tell you that having unstained teeth boosts their confidence. Whether they are in the office, giving a presentation, on a date or simply walking down the street, a bright smile can skyrocket self-confidence. White teeth also give the impression that you take care of your health and your appearance.

Enhances Appearance

White teeth can certainly enhance your appearance, which may change how other people perceive you. People are naturally inclined to gravitate towards those who look after themselves and their appearance. Teeth whitening is popular amongst those who work in a corporate setting, particularly those who give presentations and meet with clients regularly.

Minimise Effects of Aging

More often than not, stained teeth come with age. After a lifetime of enjoying a morning coffee and perhaps a good red wine with dinner, it’s not unusual to have stained teeth as you get older. Having your teeth whitened at Creastmead Dental can minimise the look of aging, as well as ensure your oral health is in good check.

General Oral Hygiene Tips

Research has proven many times that there is a close connection between a person’s oral health and overall body health. You can keep your teeth for a lifetime by following the below oral hygiene tips:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for at least two minutes.
• Floss daily before brushing to ensure the removal of anything that your toothbrush cannot dislodge.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-6 months or if it shows any signs of wear. Rinse it well and store dry to maintain a better shape.
• Eat a healthy diet to save your teeth. Avoid eating excessive sugary foods and minimise the use of coffee, tea, and other liquids that leave stains on your teeth (but still enjoy the occasional one).
• Book a visit to Crestmead Dental every six months for a check up.
• Use dental hygiene products regularly.
• Keep yourself hydrated.
• Avoid smoking.

If it’s time for your regular check up, or you’ve been considering getting your teeth whitened, speak to the friendly team at Crestmead Dental, and see how we can help you.