If you’re one of the many considering whitening your teeth, this article is for you. Teeth whitening has been one of the most requested services among dental offices, and with the trend not slowing down and more at-home options on the rise, you need to know what option is best for you.
Home whitening
At-home whitening can pertain to a variety of products and there are a ton of companies that claim to whiten teeth dramatically. These are the most common over-the-counter products you can buy at your local store:
- Whitening Strips: The closest you can get to professional results. It generally takes months to see desired results.
- Whitening Toothpaste- Helpful in reducing stains.
- Whitening Mouthwash- Helpful in reducing stains.
Some people also choose to use home remedies like activated charcoal, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide. Mild products like this can improve discoloration over time or be helpful in-between professional visits.
Professional whitening
If you’re interested in professional whitening, there are generally two options, at-home kits, and in-office whitening.
- At-Home Whitening Kits: These kits include custom-fitted trays that are made in the dental office and worn over your teeth. You then fill it with a whitening gel. Some kits use lower-concentration bleaching agents, and others may require overnight use for several weeks. Most people achieve their desired results within just a few days.
- In-Office Whitening: These are professional treatments performed at a dental office. Dentists use stronger bleaching agents and sometimes activate them with special lights or lasers. The process usually takes about an hour and typically provides immediate results of up to 14 shades whiter.
It’s important to keep in mind other factors that may affect which type of whitening route to pick. Factors like oral health, budget, the severity of stains and discoloration, and how quickly you want the results. While there are a lot of cost-effective products that claim to improve the whiteness of your smile, your best option to see results is to visit the dentist.
