Numerous ways exist that can make your teeth whiter. There are three basic methods and they include getting professional whitening done at the dentist, using an at-home kit, or using cheaper teeth whitening products.

All of these options are safe for your teeth as long as you follow instructions and use them properly. Overuse could cause damage to tooth enamel.

Going to a dentist for teeth whitening is going to give you the best and quickest results. You will notice a difference after the procedure, which typically lasts about an hour. The cost is typically between $300 to $800, depending on where you live and the extent of the procedure. Some whitening procedures can cost $1,000.

The benefit is that you won’t need another whitening procedure for at least a year. Some will last for three years. Plus, you get the results you want.

Your dentist will go over expectations of the whitening procedure before the treatment. There will be cards of shades for you to look at to decide how white you want your teeth to be.

The Procedure

Your gums are protected by the dentist applying a barrier. A whitening agent is applied to your teeth with light activation used. This is a light that shines directly on your mouth with your teeth exposed. You will need to sit in the chair for this part of the process for up to an hour.

Depending on the amount of staining on your teeth and how white you want them, the dentist may need to apply additional coats, which will amount to a longer time in the chair.

Dentists are using a fairly new type of treatment called the Phillips Zoom whitening treatment. The primary difference between this treatment and traditional whitening treatments is the time it takes.

The Zoom method can be done in 45 minutes rather than a full hour. It depends on the teeth and how stained they are as some Zoom treatments can also take an hour.

Zoom also gains whiter shades in teeth than traditional treatments. You can get your teeth up to eight shades whiter using Zoom.

Dentists will usually give Zoom patients a take-home kit to maintain their smile. They may also include kits for those who get traditional in-office whitening treatments.

At-Home Kits

At-home kits can be purchased online, over the counter, or through your dentists. It’s always good to ask your dentist for recommendations to ensure you get the safest and best whitening kits.

These kits cost as little as $20 but some can cost considerably more. This is a more long-term whitening effort than going to a dental office.

Each kit is a little different. Most have trays to put on your teeth for a specific time of day. The instructions typically want you to do this for several days to get good results. You will need to follow the instructions exactly to avoid damaging teeth enamel. It’s important that you don’t overuse the kits.

Results with the kits aren’t going to be as good as with an in-office treatment. They won’t last as long either. It’s important to know how long you can expect whitening to last and how often you can use a kit without damaging your teeth. All of this information is included in the information in the kit.

Whitening Products

There are several whitening products available today and all have some element of success. Whitening strips are widely available, easy to use, and safe for teeth. There are products specifically geared to removing stains on teeth and even standard toothpaste brands have whitening elements in them.

Dentists typically recommend that patients stick to tried-and-true brands when it comes to strips, whitening products, and toothpaste. Look for the ADA label to know if the product is safe for your oral health.

Changing Your Habits

One way to keep your teeth white is to change some of your eating habits. Things like coffee, tea, and soda are terrible for teeth and can cause significant stains. However, many also don’t know that other things like blueberries and red wine can also cause stains. That may be a hard truth for some.

It doesn’t mean you have to give up all of these things but it may be a good idea to reduce them. You can also carry a toothbrush with you so you can brush after eating or drinking these types of things.

Call our dental office if you would like whiter teeth. We have options that will get you a brighter smile that will make you proud and boost your confidence.

The first step to beautiful teeth is an exam so call today to get new X-rays and an evaluation so you can move forward to a whiter, brighter, healthier, smile.