5 Types of Teeth Whitening

Having a dull, yellow smile is a very common insecurity people face when it comes to appearance. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent this insecurity, and whitening your teeth is one of them. Aside from avoiding staining foods and drinks, teeth whitening is one of the best ways to keep your smile looking nice and bright. There are several different ways you can go about whitening your teeth. Regardless of which method you choose to use, you should always whiten your teeth under your dentist’s supervision.

1. Toothpaste

Toothpaste may not seem like it could have any significant effect on the whiteness of your teeth, but there are special toothpaste formulas out there that many people have had success with. Unlike other more abrasive whitening methods, toothpaste does not bleach your teeth but instead whitens them by removing surface stains. While this method is very affordable, it usually doesn’t produce dramatic results many people desire.

2. Whitening Strips

Being effective and affordable, it’s no wonder whitening strips are the most common forms of teeth whitening. Whitening strips are thin, flexible pieces of plastic covered in a peroxide-based formula available at most drugstores. Typically, you wear them for 30 minutes a day for a week or two to notice results. The results should last at least a few months before it’s time to whiten again.

3. Pre-Made Whitening Trays

Pre-made whitening trays are lined with a powerful gel that brightens your teeth. Depending on the type, you wear the trays for about an hour for a few days to notice the results. Because these trays are store-bought, they are not customized to fit your teeth. If the trays don’t fit your teeth very well, the gel can ooze out of the trays and get on your gums, which may cause irritation.

4. Custom-Made Whitening Trays

While custom-made whitening trays are similar to pre-made trays in the application and cost, they are a much more effective and safe method for whitening your teeth. Because the trays are custom-made to fit your teeth, you won’t have to worry about the gel getting on your gums and causing irritation. You’ll also get better results than the store-bought trays since the custom trays have a higher concentration of peroxide.

5. In-Office Whitening

In-office whitening is by far the most effective form of teeth whitening. Rather than using other whitening methods multiple times for a few weeks to see results, you’ll notice dramatic results after one in-office whitening treatment. Dentists use a highly concentrated peroxide formula to give you the white teeth you’ve always wanted. Although it is the most effective form of whitening, it may not be the best option for everyone due to its higher cost.

Having a beautiful white smile like all the famous Hollywood stars isn’t as hard as you think. By using one of the methods above, you’ll have a brighter smile in no time. Talk to your dentist about which type of whitening would best suit you and your needs.

If you are interested in finding out more about your dental health, contact Westerville Dental Associates through our website or call us directly at 614-882-1135. Westerville Dental Associates remains committed to being the very best at providing patients with optimal care while making them feel right at home.