When it comes to whitening teeth there’s a lot of different methods you can use to brighten teeth — yes, there are even alternatives for those with sensitive teeth! Here are some of the best teeth whitening methods to explore:
There are a variety of over-the-counter products as well as natural methods to whiten teeth and avoid gum irritation all while still removing surface stains.
Whitening Kits. There are many different kits, teeth whitening strips, and whitening gel products that can you use at home — no dentist appointment required! At-home teeth whiteners now come in a variety of new formats, including LED lights, whitening pens (which you can easily carry in a purse) and whitening trays.
Most strips are coated with a hydrogen peroxide-based whitening gel which are typically applied on the upper and lower teeth for 3o minutes, twice a day. These types of whitening treatments tend to offer results within a week or two and can last around 5 to 6 months. Some of the most popular at home teeth whitening kit options include:
Crest Whitestrips
SmileDirectClub Teeth Whitening Kit
Zimba,
Linhart Teeth Whitening Collection
Lumineux
Natural Bleaching Agent. Those you wish to try a more natural approach have a lot of time-honored diy whitening methods to try, including:
Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar helps reduce plaque and discoloration from staining foods. It’s best to dilute it a bit in water and mix it with other natural teeth whiteners (like baking soda) and apply it by brushing teeth with the mixture.
Hydrogen Peroxide Paste. Combine two teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and gently brush with the mixture. It’s best to only do this once a week as the peroxide can erode tooth enamel if used too often.
Strawberries. The malic acid found in strawberries can help brighten yellow teeth when paired with baking soda. Combine the two and gently buff away!
Oil pulling. This is method that’s been around for hundreds of years and involves swishing coconut oil around in your mouth to remove bacteria and plaque that makes teeth yellow.
Teeth Whitening Toothpaste. Those with sensitive teeth and gums or those who are prone to tooth sensitivity may need to opt for gentler tooth whitening products, such as teeth whitening toothpastes like Crest 3D White, Arm & Hammer Extreme Whitening Toothpaste, Sensodyne Extra Whitening, and Burt Bee’s Purely White.
Professional whitening is one of the most commonly requested services and almost every dentist office offers professional teeth whitening services. The professional grade products. dentists use typically produce faster, more effective results (In fact, whitening effects from in-office whitening can result in teeth that are up to eight shades lighter!) This is an attractive option for those who want whiter teeth without wait.
But, it’s important to note, the strength of professional-grade teeth whitening products can irritate sensitive teeth. It’s a good idea to talk to your dentist about any history of gum irritation.
In a dentist’s office, you’ll likely be given several options:
1) Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Whitening Gel:
The teeth whitening process for this approach will include having the dentist polish your teeth in order to prepare the enamel surface. To help avoid gum irritation, the dentist will make sure to prop your mouth open and will protect the gum line using a barrier. Then, the whitening treatment is applied directly onto your teeth and is left to sit for up to an hour.
2) Hydrogen Peroxide and LED light:
Using this method, the dentist will do all of the above and then apply an LED light to your teeth to set the gel and remove surface stains — especially difficult teeth stains.
3) Take-Home Trays:
With a professional teeth whitening trays, your dentist will make an impression of your teeth. The result is a custom-fit teeth whitening system that is a perfect model of your mouth. The dentist will also give you a whitening agent to put in the tray at home, which you can then use to whiten your teeth professionally, but in the comfort of your own home!
Keep in mind, teeth whitening alone isn’t enough to make sure your oral health is in good standing. So make sure to see a dental professional to prevent gum disease, tooth decay and tooth sensitivity for the long haul!
Located in San Diego, CA, the Art of Dentistry dentists are consistently recognized as top in their field by their peers. The Art of Dentistry prides itself on their highly experienced and skilled staff. They understand that, just like other artists, each specialist has their own unique talents. To take full advantage of that, they have developed a team of top specialists to work collaboratively and provide you with comprehensive care that results in a magnificent smile. They offer target skillsets, advanced technology, customized treatment plans, comprehensive restorative dentistry as well as general dentistry, and much more.