Teeth whitening is the process of lightening the color of your teeth and removing stains using various methods, including whitening products or in-office whitening. While it cannot make your teeth completely white, it can help to brighten them and remove extrinsic and intrinsic stains.
There are several types of teeth whitening products available on the market:
In-office Teeth whitening treatment
This is a professional type of teeth whitening treatment that is carried out in a dental clinic by your dentist. It typically requires only one visit and uses a strong bleaching agent with highly-concentrated hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Heat or light may also be used to activate the bleaching agent.
Home teeth whitening treatment (Over counter products)
- Teeth Whitening Toothpaste: These can be used daily or several times a week, but it may take 2-6 weeks to see any noticeable result. They contain ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, and mild abrasives that polish or whiten teeth at low concentration levels.
- Teeth Whitening Mouthwash: These usually contain hydrogen peroxide with a low concentration, so their effects are not dramatic or long-lasting. They can be used daily to remove small degrees of surface staining or to prolong the effect of other whitening treatments, such as in-office treatment or whitening strips.
- Teeth Whitening Strips: These are one of the most effective over-the-counter treatments for whitening teeth at home. Some brands are easier to use and more effective than others. Some use LED accelerator lights to provide more intense stain removal. Whitening strips use peroxide to bleach teeth and remove stains. When used incorrectly or too often, they may be uncomfortable or harmful to teeth, so it is best to consult your dentist to determine the most suitable brand for your teeth and the method of use.
- Teeth Whitening Pens: These are small, plastic tubes containing whitening gel that are portable and used for spot stain removal. The gel washes away easily, so you cannot eat, drink, or rinse your teeth for about an hour after application. They provide minimal results that are usually not long-lasting.
- Teeth Whitening Trays (Home whitening kits): Home whitening kits include one or more mouth guard-like trays with a gel-based whitening solution. You can buy teeth whitening trays from the store, or your dentist can create custom trays for you that fit your mouth. The active ingredients in whitening kits approved for home use are at a lower concentration than what you would find in a dentist’s office. For that reason, you will need to use the kit multiple days a week for up to two weeks to achieve the best results.
Conclusion: Teeth whitening can be achieved through various methods, both professional and over-the-counter. It is important to use the products as directed and to consult with a dentist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific dental needs.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening is generally considered safe when done under the supervision of a dental professional or when following the manufacturer’s instructions for over-the-counter products. However, excessive or improper use of some products can cause tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or other dental issues.
How long does teeth whitening last?
The length of time that teeth whitening lasts depends on the individual, their oral hygiene habits, and the type of treatment used. Some treatments may provide longer-lasting results than others.
Can I whiten my teeth with natural products?
While some natural products, such as baking soda or activated charcoal, may have some whitening properties, it is important to consult with a dentist before using them as they can be abrasive or have unintended side effects.
