What is an ideal smile? Generally, a healthy grin will include bright white teeth. Most children and young adults achieve this goal naturally. As we age, our teeth start to discolor and dull from food stains and natural processes. Many people choose to bring their bright smile back through teeth whitening methods. The only problem comes from choosing from various over-the-counter methods versus professional options. The truth is, professional teeth whitening is always the safest and most reliable way to go.
Teeth Whitening Options
When considering teeth whitening options, there are three big considerations: your time frame, your budget, and your degree of sensitivity. Teeth whitening requires healthy, natural teeth for an effective process. If your teeth meet those criteria, consider the relative cost, convenience, and amount of time for the level of results offered.
Types of Whitening
Whitening Toothpastes: Chemical agents and tooth polishers added to whitening toothpastes clean stains from teeth, potentially making your teeth about one shade lighter. You should be careful about how abrasive these products can be, however.
- Over-the-Counter Whitening Gels and Strips: Peroxide-based gels and strips whiten teeth in 14 days when used twice per day for 30 minutes. Results last up to four months. Prices vary widely but results are not guaranteed as the strips don’t necessarily make perfect contact with all of the surfaces of your smile.
- At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening: These systems involve filling a tray similar to a mouthguard with a peroxide and bleach-based whitening solution. Usually worn daily, the product comes with directions or, if purchased from a dentist, the dentist provides directions.
- In-office Whitening System: The quickest, most dramatic teeth whitening results come from in-office whitening systems. Light-activated systems can lighten your teeth three to eight shades. A whitening product containing bleach is applied to the teeth. Heat, light, or a laser may be used in combination with the whitener. If you have a big event coming soon, this is the fastest way to receive the quickest results.
- Baking Soda: Brushing your teeth with a pea-sized amount of baking soda mixed with a few drops of water offers an expensive teeth whitening experience for maintaining brightness in between professional treatments. Once per week will provide a small but noticeable improvement.
ABOUT YOUR GARLAND DENTIST:
Dr. Vi Mai and the caring staff at Mai Dentistry are dedicated to ensuring that our patients are proud of their beautiful, healthy smiles. With years of experience in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, we can expertly diagnose and treat early dental trouble to preserve your natural tooth structure. To learn more, or to schedule your next appointment, call us today at (972) 530-0552.
