After getting a restorative treatment like a root canal, patients are often asked to choose the color of their artificial restoration or covering. Patients desiring to get veneers, bridges, crowns, or dental implants are also asked for their choice. In such a situation, the question: “What is the whitest shade of teeth?” might cross their mind.
Let’s go through this article to understand the whiteness of teeth.
What is the Whitest Shade of Teeth?
B1 is the whitest shade of teeth. There are a series of whitening shades. The whiteness of shades is in the form of a gradient. The letters A, B, C, and D describe the shades. The numbers 1,2,3,4 and 5 further elaborate on the intensity of shades. We get a total of 16 teeth shades, which are:
A (Reddish brown) | B (Reddish yellow) | C (gray colors) | D (reddish-gray colors) | |
1 | A1 | B1 | C1 | D1 |
2 | A2 | B2 | C2 | D2 |
3 | A3 | B3 | C3 | D3 |
3.5 | A3.5 | – | – | – |
4 | A4 | B4 | C4 |
As we go down each letter’s column, the shade gets darker.
A1 teeth color vs. B1 teeth shade
Any person going through these shades would assume that A1 is brighter than B1 as A comes before B in the alphabetic order. Is A1 or B1 brighter?
No, B1 is bright. The letter B represents reddish yellow, while the letter A represents reddish brown. As yellow is lighter than brown, similarly, the B series is lighter than the A series.
Keep in mind that these are all natural teeth shades. We also have shades lighter than B1, but they must be more realistic.
Hollywood White Teeth
Now we know what is the whitest shade of teeth. Each person has a different shade of teeth. However, sometimes, patients desire the shade of their teeth to be lighter than B1. In such a situation, the teeth are bleached. The bleached shades of whiteness include OM1, OM2 and OM3. OM1 is the lightest, OM2 is darker, and OM3 is the darkest shade of bleached white.
Which shade of White is Suitable for Teeth Whitening?
A1 or B1, both are suitable for teeth whitening. The main goal of teeth whitening is to remove the natural yellowish hue on the teeth and make them look naturally white. Therefore, either of these shades will restore your smile aesthetics.
A dentist can only recommend what is best for you. The final decision stays with you. In some instances, patients desire a darker shade of white. Patients requiring a ceramic crown, bridge, or veneers with darker shades can consider A2 and B2.
Which Shade of White is Best for Veneers?
The shade of your veneers should be compatible with your complexion and remaining teeth. It does not look appropriate and esthetic if your anterior teeth are of B1 shade while your posterior teeth are of A3 shade. The contrast which is seen when you smile does not look good. Therefore, the shade of white of the remaining teeth matters.
Secondly, irrespective of the dental restoration, the shade of white should be compatible with your complexion. You can have whichever shade you prefer, but you must consider a dentist’s opinion.
Are Teeth Naturally White?
No, teeth have a light yellowish hue as well. To understand the whitest shade of white, you must also understand which teeth color most people usually have. The pulp of a tooth lies at the core of the tooth. The pulp involves blood vessels and nerves with it. There is a layer of dentin outside the pulp. That layer of dentin is yellow.
Lastly, a translucent layer of enamel lines the dentin. Being translucent, a yellowish hue can be observed on the surface of the teeth. However, you should distinguish yellowish deposits of food debris from this hue.
How to choose the right shade of white for your teeth?
Now you know that you have a variety of whites that you can choose from. Your choice depends on your preference. Matching the shade of white with the white portion of your eyes will help you decide. Moreover, a cosmetic dentist can suggest an ideal color for you.
However, you can go for OM1 or OM2 if you prefer a Hollywood white smile.
How white is too white for teeth?
A shade of white brighter than the whites of your eyes might be too white for your teeth. Color equivalent to the whites of your eyes or less than that would look natural and not fake.
How long does the process of teeth whitening take?
The teeth whitening process takes about 30 to 60 minutes on average. It can be completed in a single appointment. It depends upon your current shade of teeth and the shade you desire. The procedure of teeth whitening or bleaching is usually pain-free and non-invasive. Moreover, it is essential to know that teeth whitening is safe.
The Role of a Cosmetic Dentist
A cosmetic dentist specializes in making your esthetics better. They aim to improve your smile and teeth without compromising your health. Therefore, a cosmetic dentist can advise you on which shade of white would suit your facial profile. They boost your self-esteem by offering a wide range of treatments.
It is only advisable to choose the home whitening and brightening treatments or DIY solutions with consultation from a dentist. A process that you pursue on your own might even have adverse effects.
Conclusion
This article addresses your query – “what is the whitest shade of teeth?” Choosing the white shade that suits your overall facial complexion and profile is advisable. Choosing the right dentist for this procedure plays a vital role. They are in a position to give you the best advice.
Dr. Arthur Yeh and Associates are dental experts in Montclair, NJ. With expertise in cosmetic dentistry, we will help you decide the best shade of white for you.
Book your appointment today with us in Montclair, NJ, and we’ll handle the rest for you.
