Tooth discoloration can affect the appeal of your smile and cause you to be self-conscious in social situations. If your teeth are not as white as you would like, you can brighten them using the various teeth whitening options available. To ensure you get satisfactory results, you need to choose a treatment that aligns with your smile needs and goals. Read on to find out which teeth whitening method is right for you.
Professional Teeth Whitening
The most reliable and effective teeth whitening treatment is professional chairside teeth whitening. Also known as in-office tooth whitening, the treatment takes place at the dentist’s office and only takes 90 minutes of your time.
During the whitening procedure, your dentist applies high concentration hydrogen peroxide on your teeth and lets it sit for up to 30 minutes before wiping it off and repeating the procedure. Sometimes, dentists use a special light to accelerate the whitening process. Chairside tooth whitening is a quick way to make your teeth multiple shades whiter, and you can see results immediately.
Take-Home Whitening Kits
You can whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home using professional take-home whitening kits. Although you perform the whitening treatment yourself, the procedure is prescribed by a dentist. Your dentist provides you with a kit consisting of whitening gel, which contains a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide than chairside treatment, as well as custom trays designed to fit your smile.
You place the gel in the custom trays before wearing them on your teeth to eliminate staining and discoloration. Your dentist will explain how to use the kit for the best results. Results vary, but most people start seeing results from take-home teeth whitening in approximately 10–14 days.
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
If you are looking for a budget-friendly solution to discolored teeth, you should consider whitening toothpaste. Unlike normal toothpaste, it contains special abrasives that gently eliminate staining on the tooth surface. While whitening toothpaste can remove surface stains, it does not bleach your teeth.
Whitening mouthwashes, on the other hand, contain whitening chemicals like hydrogen peroxide that brighten discolored teeth. Swish mouthwash around in your mouth for one minute twice a day before brushing to whiten your teeth. Since the rinse stays in contact with your teeth for only two minutes daily, it can take up to 12 weeks to start seeing results.
Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips
As the name suggests, whitening strips are adhesive plastic strips that you attach to your teeth to improve the look of your smile. They contain whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide and come in pairs, one for the upper row of teeth and another for the bottom. Wearing whitening strips can brighten your teeth up to two shades whiter, and you can start seeing results after a few days of use.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an effective and reliable option with quick results, professional teeth whitening services may be right for you. This option provides the expertise of a qualified dentist, as well as customized treatment to meet your specific smile goals. However, if you want to whiten your teeth at home with more gradual results, a take-home whitening kit or over-the-counter product may be your best bet. Before whitening your teeth, talk to your dentist about your overall oral health and goals for your dental aesthetics, so you can achieve a whiter smile while safeguarding your dental wellness.
