Everyone wants a bright smile, which makes teeth whitening procedures extremely popular. Teeth whitening is effective and drastically changes your smile for the better while boosting your self-confidence at the same time. But what are the teeth whitening options that can help you achieve a beautiful smile?
Different Types of Teeth Whitening Options
Before we talk about the different teeth whitening options on the market today, let’s tackle how they work. It is the peroxide contained in teeth whitening products that whitens your teeth, specifically the enamel. The effectiveness of whitening treatments depends on the amount of peroxide the product contains. Teeth whitening products normally contain between ten to twenty percent peroxide.
Before you consider teeth whitening procedures, it is good to know your options and to discuss them with your dentist. The dentist can check your teeth and gums to determine if they are healthy enough for the whitening process. If you are healthy, then you can decide on the teeth whitening method you wish to try.
Common teeth whitening options include:
- In-office bleaching
- Teeth whitening trays and gels
- Teeth whitening strips
- Teeth whitening kinds of toothpaste
- Porcelain veneers
- Other whitening products
In-Office Bleaching
Bleaching is a tooth whitening procedure that can produce amazing results. The dentist performs this procedure in the dental office in a little over an hour. Note that in-office bleaching is expensive. However, the results are appealing and last a long time, so you can save in the long run.
Teeth Whitening Trays and Gels
The results of teeth whitening trays and gels can also be fantastic. They are effective, but it takes longer before you see any results. The effectiveness of products depends on the strength of peroxide in the gel. By wearing the clear trays, it may take three days to two weeks before any noticeable change.
Also, note that there are two types of teeth whitening options that you can buy: services provided by a dentist and over-the-counter. Both of these options can help whiten teeth, but with slight differences. For instance, the size of the over-the-counter trays is generic. They may also allow the bleaching agent to get into the gums and cause irritation.
On the other hand, the kits from your dentist contain a higher content of peroxide, so they are more effective and whitens faster. Their trays are custom-made, so they fit your teeth perfectly. Teeth whitening trays and gels from the dentist are a far superior option if you want excellent results.
Teeth Whitening Strips
You can find this tooth whitening product in almost every drug store in the country. The strips somewhat work, are easy to use, and are relatively inexpensive. However, expect that the strips will take a bit of time before you can see any results.
Teeth Whitening Toothpastes
Some kinds of toothpaste may also help whiten teeth thanks to the mild abrasives that can remove surface stains. They may also have polishing agents and chemicals to make it more effective in whitening. They do normally provide limited whitening that lasts for a shorter period of time compared to other teeth whitening options.
Porcelain Veneers
These are porcelain coverings that bond to your teeth. Porcelain veneers fall under the more expensive teeth whitening options. Dentists suggest this option when bleaching is not possible. It may take a week as they are custom-made, but once fitted, your porcelain veneers can last for decades.
Other Teeth Whitening Products
Besides those mentioned, other products on the market that may be able to whiten your teeth include:
- Whitening chewing gums
- Dental floss
- Mouthwashes
- Home products like baking soda
Let Splendid Dental Atascocita Help You Have a Brighter Smile!
If you are unsure which of these teeth whitening options is best for you, ask your dentist. Our team of experts at Splendid Dental Atascocita would be happy to help. Call us at 713-244-7790 to schedule an appointment today!