So, You Want to Whiten Your Teeth?

Everyone wants white teeth. As a Dental Hygienist, I know that people are looking at my teeth all day long. They make a judgement about how well I will take care of their teeth by how well I take care of my own. White teeth are a status symbol of someone who has it together. What does your teeth say about you?

Sometimes, no matter what we try, we can’t keep our teeth completely white and stain-free. This is partially due to genetics, some lack of dental hygiene (ie brushing, flossing, etc) and what we eat and drink. As human beings, we eat lots of processed foods containing colorings and dyes, and drink coffee, tea and sodas, all of which tend to leave stains on our teeth. Over time, these stains become worked into the enamel, so even consistent brushing won’t do the trick. This is where teeth whitening products can help. Teeth whitening is a process that removes stains and restores you smile.

Teeth whitening can be done in several ways. First, there are teeth whitening strips, which you place on your teeth in order to cleanse or abrade away layers of plaque and tartar. Plaque will build up over time on your teeth, making them harder and harder to clean. The teeth whitening process can help to dissolve impurities and accumulations on the surface of your teeth. Strips are only one way of doing it.

Somtimes it takes strong chemical bleaches that will reach deeper into the tooth than the ordinary teeth whitening process to remove the stains from your teeth. The bleaching process creates a chemical reaction with the plaque and tartar, thus loosening the bond between the buildup and your teeth. Be careful not to overuse bleach; it can begin to attack your tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the substance that coats your teeth and attempts to keep plaque and bacteria from making their way inside the tooth itself. Always use any bleaching product according to the directions the manufacturer has supplied, and let your local dental know what products you are using.

Preventing stains and tartar buildup is the best way to keep your teeth pearly white. Make sure not to drink to much coffee, tea, or sweet drink. It’s all right to have these on occasion, but many people overdo consumption of these items. This causes harmful plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth. If left untreated, excess plaque can result in tooth decay and gum disease. When you do, use a straw. Using a straw will help the liquid move past your teeth without coating them.

Not only are white teeth a sign of good looks, they’re much healthier than stained or yellowed teeth. Removing tartar, plaque and the associated stains will give you a healthier mouth. Tooth whitening is an excellent choice when stains crop up despite the best dental hygiene efforts. Caring for you teeth is always cheaper than repairing your teeth. For any tooth whitening system to work, you have to use is consistently in cooperation with proper brushing and regular trips to your dentist. Please visit my site AskTheDentalHygienist or talk to your dentist for more information.

Melissa is a Registered Dental Hygienist that has been practicing for more than 12 years in the same dental office. You can find more information about your dental health by visiting her site www.AskTheDentalHygienist.com.