A bright, white smile is often associated with health and confidence, making teeth whitening one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. But, with so many teeth whitening options on the market, including over-the-counter products, professional whitening, and DIY home remedies, it can be hard to know which options are best for whitening your teeth.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different teeth whitening options and help you decide which is the safest and best option for your smile.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Before diving into the different whitening products, it is important to first understand why you’re dealing with stains. Tooth discoloration may be the result of a few different factors, including:
- Dietary Choices: The food and beverages you consume play a major role in tooth discoloration. If you eat foods with strong pigments and consume wine, coffee, or tea, you may notice your teeth staining as well.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco are both known to cause your teeth to turn yellow due to the mixture of nicotine and tar.
- Age: The dentin beneath your enamel is naturally yellow. As you get older and your enamel wears down, this dentin is exposed, leading to a yellower appearance on your smile.
- Medication: If you take medications like antibiotics, antihistamines, and blood pressure medication, your teeth may be more susceptible to staining.
- Poor Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, which may result in an increase in surface stains.
Popular Ways to Whiten Your Teeth
There are a few very popular ways you may choose to whiten your teeth. The three most popular options include:
Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products may include whitening strips, pens, and gels. These products are widely available at many stores and are often under $75. While they are widely available, they do come with some drawbacks.
Pros
- Over-the-counter whitening products are widely available, making them a reliable way to begin whitening your teeth if you don’t have quick or close access to a dental office.
- These over-the-counter kits are a great way to start whitening your teeth if you’re experiencing minor staining.
Cons
- The whitening agents in these kits are not as strong as professional products, meaning you may not be able to whiten your teeth as much as you would like.
- If you use these products improperly, you do run the risk of damaging your enamel and boosting tooth sensitivity.
DIY Whitening Techniques
Common DIY methods include baking soda, hydrogen peroxide rinses, or even lemon juice and apple cider vinegar applications. While natural and cost-effective, these methods can be problematic.
Pros
- If you don’t have much money to invest in whitening your teeth, this is a cost-effective way to see results without breaking the bank.
- In many cases, the products used in DIY teeth whitening techniques are products you already have in your home, meaning you can start whitening your teeth sooner.
Cons
- Many DIY teeth whitening solutions are often incredibly abrasive and acidic, which can be harmful to your teeth.
- Without supervision from a professional, you may experience uneven whitening, which can lead to aesthetic problems and increased insecurity.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a service performed in a dental office by a trained and licensed professional. Because it is performed by a professional, it is often considered the safest way to begin whitening your teeth. However, there are a few drawbacks to this service.
Pros
- Professionals have access to stronger whitening agents, meaning when you begin whitening your teeth with them, you’ll see more immediate results.
- These treatments are tailored to each patient’s specific concerns about their smile, meaning you’ll see results you’re proud to show off.
Cons
- This service is more expensive than an over-the-counter or DIY whitening product, which can be off-putting to some patients.
- You may have to wait several weeks to get into your dental office, which can be frustrating if you are whitening your teeth for an upcoming event.
Why Professional Treatments Are the Gold Standard
While there are many whitening products on the market, the safest option for whitening your teeth is relying on the professionals. Dentists use customized whitening trays and advanced techniques to ensure optimal results. They also assess your oral health before starting any treatment to address existing issues that could be aggravated by whitening.
Additionally, professional-grade bleaching agents are far more potent than what you’d find in store-bought products, making the results more noticeable and long-lasting. If you are considering investing in this service, working with a trusted dental team will ensure you reach the results you want.
How to Maintain a Professional Whitened Smile
Once you’ve invested in professional teeth whitening, you likely want to do everything in your power to maintain the appearance of your smile. There are a few things you can do to ensure a beautiful, bright smile for years to come:
- Avoid consuming foods and drinks that are stain-causing, or rinse your mouth with water after consumption.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help prevent new stains from forming.
- Use a straw for beverages like coffee or tea to minimize contact with your teeth.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings with a trusted dental team.
Whitening Your Teeth with an Expert Dental Team in Arden
While the allure of a whiter smile is undeniable, the path you choose can significantly impact your dental health. Opting for professional whitening ensures that your teeth stay healthy while achieving the best results. Always consult with your dentist before starting any whitening treatment to discuss the safest and most effective approach tailored to your needs.
If you’re looking for a reliable dental team in the Arden, North Carolina, area to help you begin whitening your teeth, turn to our team at Arden Dental. As an expert dental team that has experience helping patients across the area achieve the smiles of their dreams, we’re confident that we can do the same for you.
When you are ready to begin your professional teeth whitening journey, don’t hesitate to contact our team for support.
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