Top 5 Teeth Whitening Treatments

If you want a white smile to be a part of your future, you have a variety of treatments to consider. There are whitening toothpastes, as well as different at-home bleaching and in-office bleaching methods. Here we will explore the top five treatments that will keep your teeth sparkling white. Before using any whitening product, you should talk to your dentist to make sure it is safe for you.

In-Office Bleaching
In-office bleaching is a treatment that your dentist may recommend, and it can be done in his or her office. Depending on your degree of staining, you may need more than one treatment. Each treatment will take an average of 30 to 60 minutes. During treatment, your dentist will begin by protecting your gums with a rubber shield or a protective gel. Then your dentist will apply a bleaching agent. You will lie back and a light is turned on to speed up the bleaching process.

Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes are only mildly abrasive and will only whiten your teeth by a shade or two. These toothpastes do not alter intrinsic tooth color like bleaches do. However, in order for these to work, you have to brush for two minutes each time. Most people do not do this.

Whitening Rinses
These products really aren't needed by everyone. Those who use tobacco, eat staining foods and drink staining drinks may benefit from them, however. The solution is only touching your teeth for a very short time though, so do not expect anything dramatic. If you do smoke or consume staining foods or drinks, using a whitening pre-brush rinse may help to gently remove stains and prevent new ones.

Whitening Gels and Strips
Gels are generally applied with a brush similar to the brush used to apply nail polish. You paint the gel right on your teeth. Most gels call to be applied to the teeth twice a day for 14 days. The results usually last for four months on average, and you usually start to see results within a few days.

Whitening strips are applied directly to the teeth as well and are used for 14 days as well, in most cases. As with gels, the results usually last for four months on average. You will usually leave the strip on for about 30 minutes and will use two strips a day, but will space them apart.

Tray-Based Tooth Whiteners

You can find these over-the-counter or get them from your dentist. In general, the ones you get from your dentist will be more effective in whitening your teeth. You will fill the tray with the bleaching agent and wear it for the amount of time determined by the instructions. How many days you have to do the treatments depends on the treatment you are using. Some take a few days, and some require a few weeks.

Sources:

American Dental Association: Tooth Whitening Treatments