Teeth whitening brightens a smile by lightening discoloration and stains using different methods. Treatments use bleach, gels, or special lighting to reduce stains or natural yellowing. From at-home kits and specialized toothpaste to professional dental options, here are six whitening methods:
Strips
Whitening strips purchased over the counter may help you brighten your smile at home. The plastic strips are coated with hydrogen peroxide gel, which you apply to your teeth for a short duration per session. After several weeks of use, the strips lift stains from enamel, whitening your teeth. Strips require consistent application to help remove discoloration and achieve a noticeable outcome.
Toothpaste
Whitening toothpastes contain small abrasives designed to reduce surface stains on teeth. Some formulas also contain peroxide agents to lighten stains. For best results, brush with whitening toothpaste twice daily per the product’s directions. Results appear gradually, so toothpaste works best for surface-level or minor stains. More intensive treatments may be needed for deeper whitening.
DIY Kits
DIY whitening kits, purchased in stores or online, allow you to whiten teeth at home using plastic molded trays with whitening gel that fit around your teeth. The gel contains peroxide-based agents to lift stains. Follow the kit’s instructions on when to refill the trays during the application process, whether over several days or weeks. While in-office treatments usually provide faster results, DIY kits offer the convenience of at-home whitening.
In-office
Many teeth-whitening methods require you to visit your dentist or oral hygienist for professional application. Professionals first protect gums using a rubber dam before coating teeth with a stronger hydrogen peroxide bleaching agent than at-home kits provide. Then, they use halogen, UV, or plasma arc lights to speed up whitening by activating the peroxide reaction. Patients leave with teeth several shades brighter, usually in under an hour. Professional teeth whitening provides immediate results with protection from a licensed dentist monitoring your dental health.
Laser Whitening
Laser-enhanced whitening uses concentrated light energy to boost the bleaching effects of peroxide gel, which is applied to teeth by a dentist. Laser light is then applied to speed up the stain-removal process. Advanced laser whitening delivers maximum brightness quickly, lightening teeth by up to eight shades in just one hour. This powerful technique works well for deep or stubborn stains caused by years of coffee, drinking, or smoking. Ask your dentist if this option is right for you, as it provides permanent results.
Porcelain Veneers
For those seeking whitening combined with the restoration of tooth shape, color, and spacing, porcelain veneers may be an option. Veneers are wafer-thin shells bonded to the front side of prepared teeth. Custom-made for your teeth, they mask all underneath discoloration for a white smile. Veneers Minneapolis works beyond surface brightening, addressing size, shape, and color to address all issues.
Schedule for Teeth Whitening Today
With whitening options from drugstore buys to dental treatments, you can achieve your ideal brightness using a preferred method. Ask your dentist for recommendations and purchase products from a reputable manufacturer for safe and healthy products. They may suggest combining a few techniques for optimal teeth whitening. Contact a reliable dentist today
