If you’ve toyed with the idea of whitening your teeth but haven’t actually done the deed, consider the fact that teeth naturally yellow as we age, whitening them will automatically make you look younger.  What’s more, a 2008 Columbia University study found that males and females with healthier-looking teeth earn more than those with less sparkling smiles. People with whiter teeth tend to feel more confident about their smiles and are more likely to smile during face to face interactions.  Simply put, a whiter smile makes you feel happier about your looks.  Do you need any more reasons to whiten up?

How whiteners work

All bleaching methods use peroxide—whether in gel, strip, or liquid form—to remove surface stains.  The outer layer of teeth is made of enamel and if you viewed the enamel under a microscope then you will that it is porous.  Stain can get trapped in these pores and cause our teeth to look discoloured  Furthermore, the under dentin underneath the enamel are made up of thousands of tiny dentinal tubules—hollow structures stacked horizontally, like thin straws. They’re extremely porous and absorb pigments from food and drink. (Anything that can stain a white T-shirt can discolor your teeth).   Peroxide bubbles into the enamel pores and dentinal tubules and lightens those pigments.  It is important to note that teeth whitening works differently on individuals.  Some people will get whiter teeth then others depending on the composition of your teeth.

Before you bleach

A first-timer should always consult his/her dentist before trying any tooth whitener, even an over-the-counter product, because not all teeth react to whitening the same way. Some types of dental work (like caps, crowns, and veneers) don’t take to lightening because peroxide can’t penetrate them. Stains caused by antibiotics, like tetracycline, are also tricky, because they can occur in the layers inside the tooth, which brighteners can’t reach. Our cosmetic dentists in Stittsville and Ottawa will be able to advise you about the best method for you.

If you go to a pro

The cosmetic dentists at Capital Smiledocs Dental can custom-fit you with plastic dental trays, kind of like retainers, which you fill with a peroxide gel and wear at home. You could see brighter teeth within a few days, though some people need up to two weeks to see results.  You can get whiter teeth in the comfort of your own home.  Whiter teeth can be yours while you read your favourite book or watch an exciting TV show!  Just pop in your customized whitening trays and go on with your daily routine.

No-tech tricks: If you’d rather pass on the peroxide, check out these other options to whiten your smile.

whiter teeth at Capital Smiledos Dental in Stittsville and Ottawa

Bring on the baking soda

The refrigerator deodorizer also removes discoloration on your teeth. The abrasive particles polish the surface while a chemical reaction between baking soda and water lightens stains. (Warning: You can damage your enamel with the scrubbing, so don’t do it more than once a week.) Just dip your toothbrush in the soda, or simply switch to a toothpaste that contains baking soda, such as Arm & Hammer Complete Care Toothpaste.

Feel the crunch

“Foods that are high in cellulose—a strong starchlike compound found in celery, carrots, and apples—act as natural abrasives, cleansing teeth and removing surface stains naturally. Moreover, greens such as spinach, broccoli, and lettuce contain mineral compounds that form a film over the teeth, so pigments from other foods can’t stain.

Be a little shady

Want to make your teeth look fashionably white—without the work? “Stick with blue-based red and pink lipsticks or clothes in dark colors. Warm colors (yellow, orange, brown, warm shades of red) worn close to your mouth will only bring out the yellow in your teeth.

whiter teeth at Capital Smiledocs Dental in Stittsville and Ottawa

White teeth look great- attractive, youthful and clean. Few people have naturally white teeth, and teeth can become darker with age. Smoking and drinks such as tea, coffee and red wine will also progressively darken the teeth.  To get a whiter smile, contact Capital Smiledocs Dental. We have two convenient locations in Stittsville and Ottawa South.