4 Teeth Whitening Options

If your teeth have stains, you're not alone. Many foods and beverages like coffee can stain teeth. Smoking tobacco can also cause stains. Luckily, there are many teeth whitening options available. If you would like to know which is right for you, check out these four teeth whitening options.

1. Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is more abrasive than other toothpaste. This allows them to better scrub stains. Some also contain hydrogen peroxide to help whiten stains. Unfortunately, whitening toothpaste is not very effective or fast, making it a poor option to whiten your teeth by multiple shades. However, it may be a good way to maintain your teeth after other whitening options. It may help prevent stains from developing.

2. Over-the-Counter Whitening Products

There is a multitude of over-the-counter whitening products, including:

• Gels
• Pastes
• Strips
• Trays

These products usually contain a whitening agent more powerful than hydrogen peroxide. However, effectiveness varies drastically from product to product. In addition, they can vary in price. Over-the-counter whitening products are a good way to maintain your smile or to improve your smile by a few shades over a long period of time.

3. In-Office Whitening

In-office cosmetic whitening is the fastest and most effective way to whiten your teeth by many shades. The dentist takes precautions to protect the gum tissue while using a strong bleaching agent to remove stains. Some use UV light to enhance results.

In-office whitening is more expensive than any other option because it offers great results fast. This makes it a great option if you want to whiten your teeth before a big event. The procedure does not hurt, but your teeth may be slightly sensitive for a short time.

4. Take-Home Kits

If you want professional cosmetic whitening results without the cost, consider take-home kits. Your dentist provides trays and a bleaching agent. You use it at home. Results depend on how long and often you use the whitening kit, but they tend to be effective and fast.

These trays are better than over-the-counter trays for two main reasons. First, the tray is custom fit (by the dentist) for your mouth. This ensures the whitening agent penetrates all areas of the tooth better. Second, the bleaching agent is more powerful than over-the-counter trays.

If you want to enhance your smile, consider cosmetic teeth whitening. While there are many over-the-counter options, professional whitening provides the best results faster. If you would like to know more, contact a cosmetic dentist today.