Tooth Whitening

Dental Office Treatments

Your dentist is probably the most knowledgeable about what’s best for your teeth. If you’re interested in tooth whitening, talk to him or her first. A dentist will lay out all of your options and discuss the pros and cons of each. Before choosing a tooth whitening product however, be sure to also have your dentist’s approval.

Cleaning

Many times tooth whitening products are unnecessary. Instead, all you need is a regular cleaning at your dentist’s office. The hygienist is sure to be skilled at cleaning dull or yellow spots from your teeth. Before investing in whiteners, have your teeth professionally cleaned first.

In Office Bleaching

If your teeth are yellowed, you may be a good candidate for in-office bleaching. Bleaching isn’t for everyone though. Those with gray or brown teeth may not benefit from bleaching. Bonded teeth and those with white or “tooth” colored fillings are also not good candidates for bleaching.

The in-office bleaching process is simple and shouldn’t take more than thirty minutes to an hour. Your gums are coated with a protective gel and teeth with a bleaching agent. Your dentist may also use a special light in conjunction with the bleaching agent, known as laser tooth whitening. The cost of in-office bleaching varies, but you can expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $2000.

Home Bleaching Kits

Tooth Whitening Strips

Tooth whitening strips are an easy way to brighten your smile. A piece of film resembling clear tape is folded over upper and lower teeth and pressed gently so the teeth are coated with the peroxide substance that is adhered to the back of the “tape.” The “tape” is then left on the teeth for a specific amount of time, usually thirty minutes. For maximum results, it’s recommended tooth whitening strips are used daily for two weeks. Refresher kits are available to touch up the teeth every six to twelve months. Tooth whitening strips cost between $20 and $30 per box and are available in most supermarkets and drugstores. While they do work, they shouldn’t be used as a replacement for a regular dental checkup and cleaning. It should also be noted that strips only cover the front teeth, so teeth to the rear of the mouth won’t be bleached. If your back teeth are discolored, there may be a contrast between the white bleached part of the mouth, and the discolored teeth to the rear.

Bleaching Trays

Bleaching trays are a more awkward to use than white strips. A tray filled with a peroxide solution is placed over the teeth for a specific amount of time. In most cases you should be able to mold the plastic tray by placing it in hot water and fitting it over your teeth. This doesn’t guarantee a comfortable fit however. So, if you’re using a bleaching tray system, be sure it’s something that you can wear comfortably for at least thirty minutes. Teeth may need to be bleached many times for several months before reaching the desired shade of white. Bleaching in this manner has been known to cause teeth to become more sensitive, especially to hot and cold fluids. It can also lead to gum irritation. Be sure to have your dentist’s blessing before taking it upon yourself to bleach your teeth with any type of tooth whitening product.

Paint on Whiteners

Paint on tooth whitener is exactly what it sounds like. The whitener comes in a small bottle with a paint brush affixed to the cap. It resembles the white correction fluid used in most offices. The peroxide based fluid is painted onto the teeth and left there for a specific amount of time, generally about 30 minutes. While this method is more comfortable than tapes and trays, it’s important to note you’ll have to keep your mouth open during that time. Many who use paint on whiteners find it difficult to do this.

Tooth Whitening Toothpastes

If you regularly use a toothpaste formulated to whiten teeth, you may not notice much of a change. That’s because these types of toothpastes work on a gradual basis. The peroxide in the toothpaste isn’t really on your teeth long enough to make much of a difference. Still, with daily use, your teeth maybe become slightly whiter over the years. Just about all tooth whitening toothpastes are safe to use and don’t require dentist approval.