Whitening has become an easy and affordable way to brighten your smile. There are many at-home whitening options on the market that are less expensive than professional teeth whitening but the ease and immediate results make the higher cost worth it for some people. There is a risk of sensitivity with any whitening treatment but that will subside within a day or two. If you are considering whitening your teeth, speak with your Dentist first to make sure that you are a candidate for whitening and they can help you determine what route is best for you.
Having your teeth professionally cleaned before beginning any whitening treatments will make sure that you get the best results. After whitening, it is important to stay away from foods and drinks that stain the teeth, as well as tobacco products, for at least 48 to 72 hours.
Professional Whitening at Your Dental Office
In-office whitening uses a more concentrated whitening solution that is painted onto each tooth individually. They also use a protective coating on your gum tissue to protect them from the peroxide which can burn the gums. The whole process only takes an hour and a half a most, possibly less if you are not too far from your desired shade at the start. Results from professional whitening are evident as soon as you are finished with treatment and it keeps brightening over the next couple of hours which is why it is important to avoid foods and beverages that could restain your teeth! The cost of professional whitening is more expensive but depending on your lifestyle and timeframe, it could be your best bet.
Over the Counter Whitening Strips and Trays
If professional whitening is not for you, the next best option is whitening strips or trays that you apply yours. They are worn for about 30 minutes per day for up to two weeks. They are a good option for people with sensitive teeth since it is a more gradual whitening process.
Both whitening strips and trays have a lower percentage of the peroxide whitening solution which is already applied. Immediate results are not as intense as in-office whitening but strips and trays can be used at your leisure. Once you are satisfied with your results, simply stop your treatment.
Whitening Toothpaste, Mouthwash and Chewing Gum
Toothpaste with baking soda can help whiten your teeth and keep newly whitened teeth nice and bright. Using a mouthwash with peroxide in conjunction with a whitening toothpaste will also help remove daily staining. You can also start chewing sugarless, whitening gum after meals. This will help remove food particles from your teeth that can cause staining.
Keep up with your regular dental visits to keep your teeth healthy and to remove any hard to reach staining. It is hard for you to determine if whitening will work for you without consulting your Dentist and they will help you decide what products are best if you decide to go the over the counter route.
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