By Marielaina Perrone DDS

08/04/2014 We all have those times when we are seeking some kind of life change. It can make a difference to shake things up, and to gain a new lease on life. But finding that source of renewed enthusiasm can be easier said than done. What if a dramatic transformation were possible with just one simple visit to the dentist's office? Teeth whitening offers that significant change. Don't underestimate the changes a brighter smile could bring into your life. Read on for a preview of your potential post-whitening experience.

Teeth whitening has become a routine practice for many. They have found that the benefits of a white smile are worth the effort. Below you will find some of the best reasons to whiten your smile.

Can Whiter Teeth Change Your Life? While teeth whitening alone will not change your life it can be the start along a path of feeling better about yourself. So what can teeth whitening do for you?-Increased Self Confidence. Studies have shown the better we feel about ourselves in front of the mirror, the more confidence we will portray to others when we venture out into the world. When you look good, you will feel good about yourself.-Healthier Appearance. When we have a whiter, youthful looking smile it conveys health to others. Studies have shown that a person's smile is a big influencer in how we are perceived on a first impression. It also shows others you take pride in your appearance.-Stand Out In A Crowd. A whiter, brighter smile will draw others attention to you.-Increased Business. When a person has a bright, white smile they tell the world they are ready for success. Once you are feeling better about yourself, you will see a boost in work performance as well.

Recent Research In 2007, Loyola Marymount University carried out a series of three studies regarding teeth whitening and the results confirm the previous statements.-1st study examined men and women going for a simulated job interview, with the interviewers being in qualified human resource positions. The interviewees were randomly selected from a wide range of people. Some of the subjects had previously whitened their teeth, and others had not. The results of the study showed that more people who had whitened their teeth were given a job (58% to whitened Vs.42% to non whitened), and the tooth whitened subjects were offered higher salaries (53% to whitened Vs. 47% to non whitened).-2nd study examined people going on a simulated date, again with some subjects having had tooth whitening and others not. This study revealed a similar pattern with more of the tooth whitened people being asked for a follow up date.-3rd study showed subjects various pictures of people and were asked to rate quality and attributes for each person. The results showed improved perceived qualities for the tooth whitened group over the non tooth whitened group. The personal qualities deemed to be better in the group with whitened teeth were trustworthiness, increased professionalism, confident and outgoing, seen as having professional success and financial success.

Teeth Whitening Methods The various methods all have the same goal in common, to make your teeth whiter. Some are able to be done on your own and others are done under the supervision of a dentist.-Teeth Whitening Toothpaste. This method is probably the cheapest and easiest to use. It is easy because it is something we already should be doing every day, at least twice a day....tooth brushing. Many toothpastes now include teeth whitening agents, or strong stain removers to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile. Unfortunately, teeth whitening tooth pastes have variable results from person to person. If you have very deep staining, these toothpastes may not work as well for you. Long term use may cause sensitivity, so use as directed.-Teeth Whitening Strips/ Whitening Pens. This method costs a little bit more and can give better results. You can buy a box of Whitening Strips, gel pens or Trays over-the-counter at your local drug store or at the dental office. It is important to Check the expiration date on this product as it does have an effect on the whitening agent. The active teeth whitening ingredients in the strips and pens are the same as dentists use in their professional teeth whitening procedures however, the concentration of the teeth whitening agent in the store bought products is at a much lower level. The lower concentration may not get your teeth to whiten as much as you would like. The other drawback is the strips and pen may be difficult to place and may be messy. The strips must be placed across all the teeth, and cannot be directly applied to one that is stained more. The fit is not great, and they may irritate oral tissues.-Teeth Whitening With Custom Trays. This method is done through the supervision of your dentist. The whitening trays are fabricated to custom fit your mouth comfortably and allow for an even distribution of the teeth whitening gel across all teeth or only applied to specific teeth. The trays can be worn day or night (even comfortable during sleeping) over a period of one to 4 weeks, and are very convenient for busy schedules. The other advantage is that this type of teeth whitening will use stronger whitening agent. The main disadvantage to this type of teeth whitening vs the at home techniques is that it costs more, and sensitivity may be greater, but the results are better.-In Office Teeth Whitening. This is the highest cost, fastest, and generally most effective Teeth Whitening option. This procedure is performed by the dentist using a special light and teeth whitening gel. This type of whitening can deliver fantastic results in as little as 1/2 to one hour. This technique utilizes a highly concentrated whitening agent accelerated by heat and light to speed up the Teeth Whitening process.

Teeth Whitening Conclusion If you have ever considered teeth whitening, now might be the opportunity to take the leap and have a new smile. Teeth whitening is a simple procedure that can give you maximum results. Talk to your dentist before whitening. You may have dental fillings, surface irregularities, or dental crowns that will stand out if not addressed before beginning teeth whitening procedures. Decide which procedure is best for you and enjoy your new white smile.© 2014, Marielaina Perrone DDS. All rights reserved. Henderson Cosmetic Dentist

Marielaina Perrone DDS

Marielaina Perrone DDS is a family, cosmetic, and implant dentist creating beautiful smiles in Henderson and Las Vegas, Nevada.The patient is always our first priotiry throughout dental care and we strive to give you something to smile about after every visit…

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