The quality of your smile is one of the first things that other people notice about you, and it’s natural to want to make a positive impression. Unfortunately, if your teeth look more yellow or brown than pearly white, you might not be remembered fondly.
Lightening your grin with whitening solutions can boost your confidence, but it doesn’t necessarily improve or preserve your dental condition. Continue reading to learn more about the actual color of healthy enamel and why brighter doesn’t always mean better!
What Color are Natural, Healthy Teeth?
Lighter-toned enamel is generally considered more attractive than darker shades, which is why you see snowy smiles on everyone from social media influencers to politicians and pop stars. But very few people are born with such a flawless hue.
For instance, did you know that the protective outer layer of your teeth is somewhat translucent? Typically, enamel is a bluish-white hue, but it allows some of the darker yellow of the dentin layer below to shine through. That means that in their most natural condition, perfectly healthy teeth are more ivory than pure white.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
If you’re frustrated by stubborn stains, you might assume the best way to address them is with a cosmetic solution, such as professional whitening services. For example, many dentists offer take-home kits that contain ultra-concentrated gels and custom-fitted trays so you can achieve ideal results from the comfort of your living room.
This treatment breaks down pigmented particles by undergoing a chemical reaction that reduces their size and color concentration. However, bleach won’t help prevent cavities or gum disease. That means that having a spotless grin doesn’t necessarily mean it’s perfectly healthy.
How Can I Maintain My Smile?
Proper preventive care can be a straightforward and effective way to keep your mouth healthy and bright. For instance, the American Dental Association recommends brushing and flossing twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria that cause tooth decay, periodontal problems, and other oral issues. Thankfully, regularly cleaning your mouth can also clear away residue that gives darkly pigmented particles a surface to cling to.
But you might develop cavities or gum disease without realizing it, so it’s also essential to keep up with routine visits to your dentist. Scheduling a checkup and cleaning every six months allows them to monitor your condition to catch and treat problems before they progress. Then, they can also polish away more recent surface stains to help your smile sparkle.
Visiting your dentist regularly and establishing an at-home dental hygiene routine can help you maintain the most beautiful and healthy version of your grin!
About the Practice
Patients at Columbus Dental Arts benefit from two dentists eager to help families build and maintain their happiest, healthiest teeth and gums. Dr. Fraser and Dr. Wolf collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including preventive care and teeth whitening, under one roof. They take the time to get to know your unique concerns and goals, then utilize state-of-the-art equipment to tailor treatment plans to address them. You can request an appointment on the website or call (609) 324-9500.