Most of us want a smile that shines as brightly as we do, and thanks to modern advancements, it’s now much easier to get rid of those yellow teeth we hate. From at-home whitening mouthwashes and whitening patches to whitening pens, whitening trays, and charcoal products, the options are endless. However, many people are now turning to dentists for their teeth whitening treatments. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of teeth whitening to help you determine whether it’s a suitable option for you.
Pros of Teeth Whitening
1. You’ll Experience Increased Self-Confidence
A whiter smile can help you feel more confident, as you’re no longer concerned about what others think about your teeth. Did you know that we’re also more inclined to like and trust someone with a bright smile? This has a number of benefits, especially in social settings as you appear more approachable.
2. It Can Have a Positive Impact on Your Professional Life
Nice teeth are associated with excellent health, attractiveness, and confidence. In other words, a person with a wonderful smile often stands out amongst the crowd, which can be a huge benefit in your professional life.
Building and gaining trust is an important part of every job, whether you’re a doctor, a plumber, or a salesman. While your qualifications might help you get the role, building a rapport with clients or patients is essential for success. If you’re less conscious about your teeth, you’ll smile a lot more, which will help you network and connect with people a lot easier.
3. Some Treatments Are Now FDA-Approved
If you’ve opted for professional teeth whitening, you’ll be pleased to know that the methods used will be FDA-approved and won’t damage your enamel. When done correctly, teeth whitening works well on teeth that have been stained by coffee, tea, cola, and cigarettes.
Cons of Teeth Whitening
1. You Could Experience Tooth Sensitivity
Some people will experience more adverse reactions to the whitening chemicals than others. Peroxides are often used in teeth whitening, which may be harmful if accidentally consumed or wrongly applied to the skin. During the course of the treatment, your teeth may also be more sensitive than usual, which can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. The good news, however, is that side effects are usually only temporary.
2. Teeth That Have Fillings or Crowns Will Not Whiten
Fillings and crowns are made using resin composites, which do not whiten. This means that while your natural teeth become lighter, any fillings or crowns you have will stay the same, creating a disparity in your appearance. The only way around this is to have your fillings or crowns replaced once the whitening process is over, which will cost money.