It is a very common fact that people mostly like to have gleaming white smiles, not just for the perfect picture but also for more confidence and to have a healthy lifestyle.
Moreover, there are various studies that suggest that whiter teeth not only help in boosting confidence but also give a competitive advantage in clearing job interviews.
According to reports, recently India has seen a demand for teeth whitening which has increased many folds presently.
The driving factors which are propelling the teeth whitening market are growing awareness of oral hygiene, easy availability of teeth whitening OTC products.
Dr Mohendar Narula, Founder, MyDentalPlan while sharing his views on the same said, “We have seen a considerable surge in demand for teeth whitening services recently. With increased social media exposure and dental care awareness post Coronavirus is pushing Indians to focus on teeth whitening.”
He further added that “at least 7 out of 10 Indians have searched for teeth whitening clinics on our platform with the majority of them being adults or from the working class.”
The low cost of dental whitening in India is another reason for the increased demand for teeth whitening, he said, “India offers the best dental whitening services at a nominal cost across the globe.”
However, due to an increase in prolonged smoking habits, tobacco and alcohol consumption, unhealthy food habits, and higher fluoride concentrations in community water supplies, the occurrence of stains and discolouration in teeth can be attributed.
While these are some of the most obvious reasons for stains on our teeth but they are not the only causes. Along with that some of the foods that we love are coffee, colas, and even red wine can cause teeth to discolour.
But after the coronavirus pandemic has hit the country, one more reason has been added to this long list for discolouration in teeth.
There are stories that people have shared their experience that how their teeth or gums weakened after they have recovered from the infection, with many complaining that their teeth have become discoloured post-infection.
However, to make teeth pearly white again there is a whole range of products that are available in the market that claim teeth whitening. But most of these are only a temporary fix and even harm the gums and wear away the teeth’ enamel. A more permanent solution that experts recommend is teeth whiting.
Dr Mohendar Narula shed more light on the process and said, “Professional way for teeth whitening is getting them bleached in the dental clinic. The dentist applies whitening gel on the teeth surface and by using a special light or laser, the teeth get lighten by 6-8 shades. Generally, the complete process is into multiple visits and the objective is to provide best results keeping the teeth and enamel intact.”
Dr Narula added, “Another way of attaining whiter teeth is at-home bleaching. For this, the dentist fabricates customised dental trays that the patient wears at home after applying the whitening gel for a prescribed duration that lightens the teeth by 3-4 shades”.
For teeth whitening, the colour of the teeth is washed out using only chemicals (bleach, hydrogen peroxide) or in combination with radiation (UV light or lasers). While the whole process is carried out by professionals, they take care of the teeth by causing minimal harm to the enamel and the gums.
It is a big myth that teeth whitening is a waste of time and money or that it can cause great harm to teeth. If done under the supervision of experts, it can help people achieve great results. Hence it also helps in maintaining good oral health and regular professional dental cleanings every six months can preserve a long-lasting smile.