Avoid the Psychological Toll of Teeth Stains
Teeth stains do more than discolor your smile—teeth stains can have a negative impact on your self-esteem. The presence of teeth stains can make some people feel self-conscious, and teeth stains can contribute to a lack of confidence in social and professional situations, according to results of a study commissioned by Crest in 2007.
Study on Teeth Stains
In this 2007 study, researchers surveyed 1,006 adults about teeth stains and personal appearance. A majority of the survey participants responded that personal appearance, including whiter teeth without teeth stains, was important to financial success (64%) and professional success (68%). In addition, 52% of survey respondents said that personal appearance impacted how trustworthy they believed someone to be.
The impact of teeth stains can extend to a lack of confidence in job interviews and in dating situations, according to the survey. The study also collected impressions of individuals in simulated job interviews and first dates before and after their teeth stains were whitened. In the job interviews, 65% of the participants were seen as more professional after their teeth stains were whitened. In the first dates, 59% of the participants were seen as more outgoing after their teeth stains were whitened.
Causes of Teeth Stains
Teeth stains have many causes. Certain foods and drinks, especially red wine, coffee, tea, and cola, can cause teeth stains. In addition, certain medical treatments (chemotherapy, for example) and certain medications (antihistamines, for example) can cause teeth stains. Ask your dentist if you have staining from medication.
Teeth Stains and Teens
Most adolescents face challenges to their self-esteem, and teeth stains may be among their concerns, along with acne and bad-hair days. In fact, studies have shown that teeth stains can impact adolescents’ opinions about their appearance. In a 2009 study in the journal Health & Social Care in the Community, researchers interviewed a group of 23 adolescents in Brazil with teeth stains due to fluorosis. The teens reported that they were afraid to smile at people because of their teeth stains—they feared people would presume that the teeth stains were signs of poor dental hygiene.
Many dental whitening products are safe for teens. However, it is recommended that you always consult with your dentist before beginning a whitening routine. Your dentist can provide recommendations and guidance about the best, safe options available.
What to Do for Teeth Stains
Fortunately, there are many treatment options for teeth stains, including products to improve the appearance of teeth stains that you can use at your leisure and in the privacy of your own home. Most products to whiten teeth stains can be used by adolescents at least 16 years of age as well as adults. Teeth stains can be improved by following the correct instructions for use of teeth whitening products.
Keep your teeth healthy and looking great by maintaining a consistent oral health routine including twice-daily toothbrushing and daily flossing, twice-yearly visits to your dentist, and by limiting your consumption of teeth-staining beverages. Want to keep your teeth free of teeth stains? Regular whitening maintenance will help keep them looking whiter and brighter.
