Teeth come in a variety of shades and tones naturally. Many factors affect the color of your teeth, like genetics, smoking, or drinking coffee. However, society attributes an attractive smile to youth, confidence, and success, which are important qualities in any profession. While you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, stains and discoloration might be sending the wrong message. Here’s how teeth whitening could be the key to launching your career.
The Power of an Attractive Smile
According to a recent survey, 68% of Americans said a person who smiles often is viewed as approachable, confident, and trustworthy. 1 in 4 adults avoid smiling because they don’t like the appearance of their teeth. This can make a person seem unfriendly or unapproachable, which can hurt your success in professional settings. Although many factors can affect the appearance of someone’s smile, tooth discoloration is a common complaint.
It’s normal for teeth to change color over time, but tooth discoloration can be attributed to poor dental health and other stereotypes. With your smile being one of the most important features people base their first impression upon meeting you, you don’t want the way your teeth look to hold you back from climbing the ladder of success.
Researchers have found that a pleasing smile can help you land your dream job. One study found that people were 58% more likely to be hired after having their teeth whitened. In addition, 53% of them received larger salaries. Overall, 65% of the study participants were viewed as being more professional.
Invest in a Bright Smile
Don’t throw money away on ineffective OTC whitening products. Instead, invest in proven, lasting results by visiting a cosmetic dentist for teeth whitening. They’ll create a personalized treatment plan to get your teeth noticeably whiter, which may include:
- Take-Home Whitening: You can enjoy the convenience of an OTC product and achieve in-office results with a take-home kit. You’ll use the kit every day for about 2 weeks, getting your teeth up to 8 shades whiter.
- In-Office Whitening: You can get your teeth dramatically whiter over your lunch break. Your dentist will place a barrier over your lips and gums to prevent irritating the soft tissues. After applying the whitening gel, they will use a special dental light for three 15-minute sessions.
Your vibrant smile can last for many months or years with the correct care, like brushing and flossing. Avoid any foods or drinks that may stain your teeth, like red wine, berries, or coffee. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They can also provide you with a touch-up kit to maintain your results.
About Dr. Dina H. Cocco
Dr. Cocco completed dental school at the University of Michigan and has continued her training regularly to provide the most up-to-date dental solutions. She is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (734) 668-8636.