Being self-conscious about the color of your teeth can keep you from smiling. While smiling is often a reaction to being happy, smiling can also cause happiness; so much so that it might even be worth it to fake it. Teeth whitening and dental care, in general, gives us an opportunity to improve our mental health.
What Does the Research Say?
One study from the Association of Psychological Science suggests that smiling can help people recover faster from stress and reduce their heart rate. Additionally, smiling causes the release of:
- Endorphins
- Serotonin
- Dopamine
- Neuropeptides
Smiling doesn't just affect the person smiling either; it's often contagious. Someone seeing your smile can brighten their day. A study published in the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior found that smiling (and frowning) induce facial feedback of observers (encourages them to mirror an observed facial expression).
Teeth Whitening Options
Today, people hoping for brighter, whiter teeth have countless options at their disposal. Over-the-counter treatment options, at-home teeth whitening therapies, and in-office procedures can all transform your teeth into awe-provoking pearly whites. If you're not satisfied with your smile and it's keeping you from showing off your smile, you may be wondering what's to blame for your teeth' color in the first place.
What Causes Teeth to Become Discolored?
Teeth become discolored and stained over time due to contact with highly-pigmented food, beverages, and chemical compounds such as minerals or over-fluoridated water. Some of these foods and drinks include things like:
- Red wine
- Fruit juices
- Coffee
- Tea
- Tomato-based sauces
- Tobacco
Additionally, some people are genetically predisposed to discolored teeth. Luckily Dr. Firouzi offers patients in-office whitening that in just one 90-minute visit can give patients noticeable results.
Start Enjoying Whiter Teeth Today
Teeth whitening doesn't just benefit appearances; it can be good for your mental health as well. Of course, if you're suffering from depression or anxiety, we recommend reaching out to a mental health professional. Feeling good about the way you look and smiling more can make a great co-treatment option.To learn more about teeth whitening and what options can work best for you, call Dr. Firouzi today at (412) 274-1126 or visit our contact page here.