Teeth Whitening for the Holidays
Most people want to look their best for the holidays. We have our hair done, pay a visit to the manicurist, and buy a new outfit.
It makes sense that more people are having their teeth whitened for the holidays, since your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. The impact of having of having an unattractive smile can greatly affect an individual’s self esteem, which can negatively impact their performance in both in business and social settings.
Because people have full social calendars for the holidays, some consider professional whitening to be a priority.
“I quit having the mani/pedi and put my money into having my teeth whitened. After all, I can paint my nails myself,” said a friend recently, “It’s important for me to make a good impression with my business contacts. I do a great deal of networking during the holidays, which translates into sales and dollars for me. I think looking my best is an important part of that. So, yes, it’s more than worth the cost.”
The process of professional tooth whitening is started in your dentist’s office. The advantages are numerous: your dentist has access to more effective whitening products--it isn’t uncommon for your teeth to be five to ten shades lighter after the initial visit. In addition, a dentist can obtain these results in less than an hour instead of a few weeks. The lightening procedure is safe and long-lasting. And nothing brightens a room or a heart more than a gorgeous, sparkling smile.
The patient can do aftercare at home, usually for a couple of weeks.
Why not just forego the professional and do it yourself?
Usually, a less-than-brilliant smile is the result of genetics,or consumption of stain-producing products like tobacco, coffee, tea, or wine. But, sometimes, discoloration can be a symptom of an underlying dental problem such as exposure to tetracycline, tooth decay or root canal issues. Also, home whitening agents can cause gum irritation, since the trays are generic and can leak, unlike the custom-fitted trays your dentist will create. Your existing dental work can negatively impact the outcome, as well.
Custom whitening trays avoid problems.
Sometimes, patients will have a sensitivity to the whitening process. If this is the case, it can be treated by your dentist at the time.
Tooth whitening is an investment. It can generally last a year or more, depending on a number of factors, such as good oral hygiene, how well you manage the whitening maintenance process and how often you consume products that could negatively impact the results.
Having anything done by a professional will yield the highest quality results available. Tooth whitening is no exception.Maybe tooth whitening might be a gift you give to yourself this holiday. If you think you might benefit from a whiter smile, give our office a call and set up an appointment today!
