From Facebook to Instagram, the temptation to post pictures of yourself is everywhere. And we all have the Facebook friend who’ll gladly post pictures and tag us, no matter how embarrassing or unflattering the image might be. Then there are the holidays, where everyone wants dozens of pictures. For someone who doesn’t like his or her smile, every photo opportunity is a source of anxiety. Dr. Todd Pizzi offers teeth whitening in Shrewsbury, MA so you can love the way your smile looks in photos.
Tips for a Photo-Worthy Smile
If you’re worried that your smile will look silly or too wide, here’s a tip straight from the red carpet. When you smile, push your tongue toward the back of your mouth, behind your teeth.
Wearing dark shades of lipstick can make your lips look much thinner and less plump. Instead of a matte or ultra-glossy lip color, use a bright, creamy lip product. Colors with a blue or violet base will make your teeth appear brighter, while nude, peach, and orange shades can make teeth look yellow.
Afraid of flashing an unnatural smile? Instead of saying “Cheeeese!”, which stretches your mouth and lips unnaturally, think of something funny. Joke with your photographer, think of your favorite comedy–anything that entices you to chuckle and grin.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Over-the-counter teeth whitening toothpaste and mouthwash are effective for improving the appearance of teeth that have light surface staining, but they may not be powerful enough for more stubborn stains. Tobacco, coffee, cola, and poor hygiene can all cause your teeth to look yellow or even brown. The same is true of any acidic foods or beverages, which erode the tooth enamel and make your teeth more prone to staining.
We use the Kor Deep Bleaching System, which uses a combination of home and in-office teeth whitening treatments. Professional home whitening kits are similar to those you find at the drugstore, but with custom-created bleaching trays that fit your teeth perfectly. As Dr. Messina points out, this ensures consistent whitening without splotches or unevenness. We find that professional treatment also helps to avoid gum irritation and teeth sensitivity, which are common side effects of DIY whitening methods.
