There are plenty of reasons to desire a straighter, whiter smile. Your smile is often the focal point of your appearance, and it is usually the first thing another friend, colleague, or classmate will notice. Moreover, several studies indicate that an eye-catching smile makes people of all ages appear happier, healthier, and more successful.
What Your Smile Says About You
A bright white smile can significantly impact how others perceive you. According to a new study commissioned by Crest, whiter teeth can improve both career success and earnings among adults. Specifically, adults with whiter teeth were 58% more likely to be hired at a new job and approximately 53% more likely to receive salary increases (i). Adults are not the only ones who benefit from a brighter smile, however.
A study published by Kelton Group, an international consumer research agency, shows that children with straighter and whiter smiles are perceived as healthier, happier, and smarter (ii).
Whiter Teeth This Holiday Season
For whiter teeth this holiday season, consider adopting a few of the following habits and teeth whitening treatments below!
1. Watch acidic drinks
Soda, orange juice, energy drinks, grapefruit juice, and other highly acidic drinks all wear down tooth enamel. Darker juices and drinks can also stain enamel, reducing the natural sheen of your teeth. This holiday season, drink more water instead of highly acidic drinks.
2. Eliminate fluoride
This might seem counterintuitive. After all, we see countless advertisements every year that say fluoride prevents tooth decay and is “recommended” to improve oral health. However, studies show that fluoridated tap water, toothpastes, and mouth rinses can cause fluorosis. Fluorosis is a condition characterized by permanently stained or discolored tooth enamel. This holiday season, protect your teeth by ditching fluoride and adopting healthier eating and oral hygiene habits.
3. Rinse with apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar promotes a number of holistic health benefits, one of which is a healthier and cleaner smile. Mix the vinegar with water (1:2 ratio) and swish after brushing. After rinsing, some dental professionals recommend gently brushing teeth again to ensure residue is removed from the teeth.
4. Try oil pulling
Oil pulling originated in ancient India, but it is enjoying today’s pop culture spotlight as it gains popularity as an all-natural way to reduce oral bacteria and tooth decay. Healthier gums and whiter teeth are just two of the benefits of this easy practice. Try oil pulling in the comfort of your own home by following this oil pulling guide.
5. Limit coffee, tea, and wine
The holiday season usually means a lot of brunches, dinners, and other get-togethers with friends and family. With all the holiday fun and cheer, it’s easy to find yourself drinking more coffee, tea, and wine than normal. Remember that these 3 common pre- and post-dinner drinks are fine in moderation, but too much can stain the enamel of your teeth.
6. Try whitening products
As the New Year approaches, people of all ages often find a renewed interest in looking and feeling their best. Professional teeth whitening treatments like ZOOM! Teeth Whitening are a quick and painless way to eliminate any discoloration or stains that accumulate over the holiday season.
Holistic Dentistry in Miami
At Assure A Smile, we believe your teeth will enjoy a much healthier lifestyle through proper nutrition, diet, and safe care. To experience holistic dentistry firsthand, readers are invited to schedule an appointment with Assure A Smile online or call our friendly front desk directly at 305-274-0047.
Sources
(i) “New Study Shows Whiter Teeth Can Lead to Greater Success in Work and Love.” URL: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-study-shows-whiter-teeth-can-lead-to-greater-success-in-work-and-love-58681087.html
(ii) “Peaple with straight teeth considered to be happier, healthier, and smarter.” URL: http://www.dental-tribune.com/articles/news/usa/8133_people_with_straight_teeth_considered_happier_healthier_and_smarter_.html
