Teeth whitening is a safe and effective process that results in a far more attractive smile, and an increase in confidence. But is it possible that the treatment could have physical health benefits as well? Research is starting to suggest that it could.
Firstly, the chemicals used in the whitening process could have a direct benefit on oral health. According to research at the Medical College of Georgia and reported in Science Daily, the active ingredient carbamide peroxide, which is used as a bleaching agent for the teeth, may also play a role in preventing tooth decay. It was originally used as a dental antiseptic, and is known to remove plaque, kill bacteria and prevent cavities by raising the mouth's pH.
The chemical is so effective that some researchers have suggested using a custom-fit tray to release the chemical, similar to a bleaching tray used in the whitening process, as a supplement to a more traditional oral hygiene regime of brushing and flossing. The tray could be worn for a few hours a day or overnight, and would allow the carbamide peroxide to be released into the mouth. The researchers believe this is particularly useful for the elderly and people with special needs, who may find it more difficult to keep up good dental care habits.
Secondly, it seems that people who have undergone a course of whitening tend to have a better dental hygiene routine. They tend to brush and floss more, and take better care about it. It seems that having a set of attractive teeth that you can be proud of increases your determination to look after them, whereas stained and discoloured teeth may put people off from bothering.
Thirdly, the increase in confidence and self-esteem that comes with a perfect smile can in itself translate into a better state of health. Confident people tend to get better jobs, make more money and attract new relationships, and to be happier overall. All of these things are associated with a better state of physical health generally and with dental health, perhaps because the increase in self-esteem makes people want to look after themselves a little better.
So next time you're wondering whether to whiten your teeth, don't think of it as merely a cosmetic process. Your whiter teeth and more confident smile could bring about improvements in your physical health — giving you something well worth smiling about. Learn more by contacting a cosmetic dentist.
Share3 July 2018
Hi! Welcome to my blog! My name is Kerry, and this blog is focused on dental fillings. It looks at the history of fillings, options for contemporary fillings, how to protect your fillings, when to replace them and much more. If you have ever had a cavity filled or if you are planning to get a tooth filled, you will find the information in this blog useful. I try to look at fillings from all angles, and I even plan to look at how to avoid fillings through proper dental hygiene and sealants. Thanks for reading, and I hope you find the info intellectually "filling."
