Methods Used for Whitening Teeth

There are several ways to whiten teeth. This article will explore the various options available for tooth whitening.

The type of tooth whitening method you use will be determined by what type of discolorations you are trying to whiten. Typically superficial discolorations (on the outer part of the tooth called the enamel, are easy to whiten. Tooth discolorations that are within the tooth itself are a bit trickier and you will likely need to have your teeth whitened in the dentist's office. These types of discolorations are caused from injury or trauma to a tooth or from various medications that can also leave behind undesirable tooth discolorations.

The most common methods of tooth whitening systems are the following:

In Office Tooth Whitening

In office tooth whitening is the most expensive method of whitening teeth. There are various options available from bleaching to laser tooth whitening at the dentists office. This type of service will cost you anywhere from $600 and up. If you have severe discoloration or have tried whitening kits with poor results this will likely be your best option when trying to whiten your teeth. It never hurts to get a consultation and professional advice as well before embarking upon a tooth whitening regimen. These treatments are skillfully applies and much more powerful than home whitening kits.

At Home Professional Tooth Whitening Kit

At home tooth whitening kits are kits that you can purchase directly from your dentist. These kits typically are a bit better than their over the counter counterparts. They are also more expensive. The one advantage with professional kits are they usually have some sort of custom tray. These trays are what holds the whitening agent, usually a gel, to the teeth for a period of time. There are usually numerous applications with home kits.

Over the Counter Tooth Whitening Kit

Over the counter tooth whitening kits are cheaper than professional kits. They are also a bit more gentle in nature. Basically foolproof if following the directions properly. The downside on over the counter whitening kits is that the trays are usually one size fits all which can be uncomfortable. This type of kit is mainly for someone with discolorations caused by smoking and drinking beverages like coffee,tea and wine. I have tried this type of kit personally and find them easy to use with good results.

Whichever method you try it is wise to consult a professional beforehand. If you are using an over the counter at home kit please do know that you do so at your own risk. I personally find them very safe and effective to use. Not to mention they are easy with fast results. This might not be the case for everyone.