There’s nothing quite like waking up on Christmas morning to a snowy winter wonderland. The outdoor conditions don’t have to be the only part of your Christmas that’s white, however — between all of the treats and drinks consumed during the holiday season, your teeth can take quite a beating. Teeth whitening is a quick and easy solution to help ensure that your teeth are clean, polished, and ready to resist stains this Christmas.
What Causes Discoloration?
There are three types of discoloration that can affect the appearance of your teeth. Intrinsic discoloration occurs when the inner structure of the teeth are stained, and can be caused by too much exposure to fluoride during early childhood, trauma to permanent teeth, or the use of tetracycline antibiotics during childhood. Extrinsic discoloration is caused by stained enamel from food, drinks, and/or smoking, and is the most common type of discoloration. Finally, age-related discoloration occurs as the enamel on the teeth gets thinner, making the naturally yellowing dentin more prominently visible the older we get.
Why Should I Whiten My Teeth Before The Holidays?
Though it may seem counterproductive, whitening your teeth prior to the holidays has a variety of benefits. This is the busiest social time of the year, with gatherings being thrown and pictures being taken. Having a beautiful white smile can help ease any reservations you may have about having your photo taken, and can help you smile with confidence this holiday season. Teeth whitening before the holidays can also help prevent future staining that is caused by many of the common holiday foods and drinks, including coffee, red wine, berry pies and cranberry sauce.
In general, teeth whitening can also help offset the effects of aging and smoking. As we age, our tooth enamel wears down over time, making discoloration more visible and oral health problems more likely to develop. Smoking damages our teeth, which can lead to more plaque and bacteria buildup over time, resulting in discolored teeth.
How Can I Keep My Teeth White During the Holidays?
In addition to teeth whitening, consuming crunchy veggies, nuts and hard cheeses during the holidays can help prevent staining, as these foods neutralize acid and stimulate the flow of saliva to wash away debris. Using a tooth whitening toothpaste, brushing teeth after meals, and flossing regularly can also help keep teeth white, whether it’s the holiday season or not.
Because teeth whitening may not correct all types of discoloration, it is important to visit with your dentist before deciding to whiten your teeth. At CORE, we will begin with a consultation to determine whether whitening treatments are right for you, and proceed with a personalized plan to provide you with a bright white smile in time for Christmas. Or, if you prefer to see us when your schedule slows down after the new year, we’d love to help you start 2021 with a brighter smile!
To learn more about our whitening services, please give us a call at (406) 652-9100. Or, to schedule your appointment, click here.
