Pearly Whites? What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options

Teeth whitening procedures are a rapid growing trend for individuals of all ages. As we age teeth can change color over time due to smoking products and the food that we eat or drink. Fortunately there are many products that are available to brighten teeth up to several shades. These products can range in price and can be an option for even those with a low budget. The most common methods are whitening toothpastes, strips, gels or take home whitening kits and in office teeth bleaching.

Whitening Toothpaste

Over the counter toothpastes are available in most drugstores for an at home whitening solution. Although these are generally not as effective for everyone and they usually require prolonged daily usage before results are visible.

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are also a cheap over the counter alternative that can be purchased at most drugstores. Clear strips containing peroxide based ingredients are applied to the teeth twice a day for 30 minutes for the duration of two weeks until results are achieved. The results can last between four to five months.

Whitening Gels

Gels can usually be purchased at the dentist’s office as a take home whitening kit. Gel is applied to the teeth in either a custom made tray or a standard silicon tray and kept against the teeth for 30 minutes. The procedure is repeated once a day for three days for whiter results. Whitening gels are a cost effective way to whiten your teeth with the direction of a dentist.

Teeth Bleaching

An in-office tooth bleaching is a procedure available from dental professionals and is the most effective and quickest method of obtaining a whiter smile. As it is done in the care of a professional the active ingredients are the strongest strength resulting in a quick and whiter outcome. In addition to this dentists will ensure that your gums and enamel are protected during the procedure. Hydrogen peroxide ingredients are applied to the teeth and the whitening process is active by a blue light. One session usually takes about 15-20 minutes and gives immediate results.

Overall there are a wide range of products that can allow you to obtain the whiter smile that you are looking for but it is highly recommended that you consult with a dental professional to decide which method would suit your teeth. D.R. Dental can help you in discovering which teeth whitening option would work for you, call to book an appointment.