First impressions count and often our smile is what says the most about us when we first meet people, and is what they will remember. And if you do not smile, maybe because your teeth aren’t quite as you want them to be, they’ll remember that too. People who do not smile, whatever the reason, are perceived, often unfairly and inaccurately, by others as unfriendly and unhelpful, and sometimes avoided because people think they are just not happy or pleasant.

Photo by Rupert Taylor-Price / Flickr

Pearly Whites

In our culture, whiter teeth are considered to be better teeth. While this is not the case in all societies, advertising pressure has increased the popularity of teeth whitening dramatically over the past few years. Many foods and beverages, as well as tobacco products and antibiotic use, can discolor teeth. If you’re the sort to not smile because your teeth are not the perfect shade, then here are some things you should know!

Pro or Amateur?

Most dentists offer teeth whitening to their patients and  health bloggers also recommend that. There are also many products available to the public to whiten teeth in their own homes as well. Keep the following in mind before you make up your mind on what to do.

• Cost – Keep in mind that many teeth whitening processes are often not covered by insurance policies. As teeth whitening done in a dentist’s office will almost always cost considerably more than when done in the home, this is important to remember. Whitening rinses, toothpastes, gel strips, and whitening trays are all available in most drugstores without a prescription and at a relatively low expense. There is now even a whitening gum available!

• Time – Most home whitening treatments usually take considerably longer than those done by dentists, which are usually completed in one sitting. Gel strips are typically used for 10 to 20 days before results are achieved. Rinses and pastes are very gradual as well. Trays are much quicker, but unlike the custom fit devices used by a dentist, they frequently do not fit well and this can cause problems.

• Results – Not all products and procedures are equally effective. The more expensive and quicker processes used in a dentist’s office also usually produce better results.

• Side Effects – Irritated and inflamed gums can result from home use of whitening trays. Sensitive teeth post-whitening is a complaint of some whitening toothpaste users. If you already have sensitivity in your gums or teeth, a dentist can use a desensitizer to make the experience less unpleasant for you.

• Lasting – Professional teeth whitening is said to last a year or more, as are home whitening techniques. Both types of procedures are recommended to be followed up by continued whitening at home as well.

Light Up Your Face with a Smile

Most people report satisfaction and improved appearance with teeth whitening. They feel more confident, more likely to smile, and happier. They are perceived to be healthier, younger, and more enjoyable to be around. Is teeth whitening for you? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts.

Written by: Sara Xiang likes to visit how to make a website when she has questions. She also likes to study content marketing strategy whenever she has a chance because it’s so interesting to her.