Something To Smile About!

A dazzling smile does not merely indicate healthy teeth and gums; your dental health also plays a significant role in how confident you feel. If you are self-conscious about your smile, you will not feel good about interacting with other people. When your teeth look white and healthy, you can relax, be in the moment and laugh. It is widely acknowledged that changing your expression to a smile or mimicking another’s smile can cause involuntary biological changes[1]; a smile can lower blood pressure, release endorphins, increase serotonin and reduce stress¹. Smiling boosts your mood and has a contagious effect; others are likely to smile back and become more drawn to you, thereby increasing your confidence and happiness even more.

Various research projects have shown that people who smile more often have a far more positive effect on their environment, and are much better received by others[2]. A radiant smile tells people that you are happy to be in their presence, indicating that you are sociable, trustworthy and intelligent.

People who avoid smiling usually do so because they are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth. They invariably stop smiling or assume a closed-lip grin, which at best is perceived as awkward, or at worst as not genuine.

Teeth can become discoloured by stains on the surface or by changes in the tooth material. Of course, extrinsic discolouration occurs when the enamel is stained, often caused by drinks such as tea, coffee and red wine, foods that contain strong colours and smoking. Intrinsic discolouration arises when the dentin darkens or adopts a yellow tint. Contributory factors include too much exposure to fluoride during early childhood or experiencing a trauma in a permanent tooth whereby internal bleeding resulted in tooth discolouration. Age-related discolouration is a combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, as dentin naturally yellows over time.

Many extrinsic stains caused by food and drink can be removed by regular professional cleanings and good home care, which includes brushing, flossing and rinsing after meals.

Tooth whitening can be a very effective way of lightening the natural colour of the teeth without removing the enamel or damaging it.

In Europe, only a qualified dental practitioner can legally carry out tooth whitening.  New EU guidelines introduced in October 2012 state that only qualified dental practitioners can buy whitening products containing or releasing up to 6% hydrogen peroxide. These regulations are in place to protect the patient. They ensure that anyone carrying out whitening has the correct skill and knowledge to execute the procedure without risking permanent damage to the teeth and gums.

It is the dentist’s responsibility to first assess whether tooth whitening is suitable for the patient and then to outlay the suitable options. Not to be recommended are the often cheaper, over-the-counter home kits, which are not always tested for safety and can potentially damage patients’ teeth and gums. Regulations differ between countries; while kits sold in Europe cannot legally contain more than 0.1% peroxide, which is too little to be effective, in other countries, stronger peroxide is allowed. Products sold over the internet may contain damaging acids and abrasives, which can attack tooth enamel.[3]

Many people turn to unregulated methods as they regard dental costs as prohibitive. In the past, it was possible to choose from only a limited selection of products. However, there are now many different options available, making teeth whitening more accessible and affordable than ever.

Professional teeth whitening options available include teeth whitening trays, gels and strips. Common in most dental practices, tray whitening offers patients a brighter, whiter smile and improved appearance with no side effects. Initially a customised whitening tray, similar to a gum shield is made. This is then taken home and used in conjunction with a bleaching gel. The gel is regularly applied over two to four weeks and worn for between 30 minutes to an hour.

Likewise, teeth whitening strips are a great choice to offer patients. Representing the latest innovation in whitening technology, Professional Whitening Strips from WhiteWash Laboratories contain the optimum amount of whitening gel to simply, safely and effectively whiten patients’ teeth. With a unique and gentle mint-flavoured whitening formula and slow release ingredients, the cost-effective and comfortable strips provide reason enough for a more radiant and whiter smile within only 14 days!

In addition, products that can maintain healthy teeth and enhance their appearance are of paramount importance when encouraging patients to sustain an effective oral hygiene routine. The WhiteWash Laboratories range of oral care products includes brushes with ergonomically contoured handles to fit the shape of the hand and fluoride toothpaste that can help to remove surface stains and restore teeth back to their natural whiteness.

Advocating a good oral hygiene regime will reap long-lasting benefits for your patients, promoting strong teeth and gums and keeping teeth whiter for longer. With newfound confidence on board, a sense of ease will prevail, mental well-being will improve and relationships will flourish. And that is definitely something to smile about!

For more information call 0844 68 69 150, email

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