Have you noticed a change in the color of your teeth and want to treat them and restore that bright whiteness? We know that you may be tempted to turn to a whitening toothpaste first. Many brands claim that their toothpaste products will gradually lighten your teeth over time with minimal risk of sensitivity.
Unfortunately, while whitening toothpaste may slightly reduce stains on the surface of tooth enamel, it will not do much to improve the overall color of your teeth. That’s because the active ingredients in toothpaste aren’t strong enough to change the natural color of your teeth or penetrate stains beneath the surface, according to the Mayo Clinic website.
You have two options if you want to whiten your teeth effectively:
Home remedies
A drugstore treatment, an at-home whitening treatment, or a professional treatment at the dentist’s office? They’re all viable options, although dentists argue that professional teeth whitening services are more effective, long-lasting and safe, according to Everyday Health. Some home remedies may also worsen spots depending on their origins. However, the cost of professional whitening is often prohibitive.
Home remedies encompass a wide range of solutions and remedies that can be used to address various ailments and conditions. When it comes to teeth whitening, there are several popular home remedies that people swear by:
- Brushing with baking soda
- Oil pulling with coconut oil
- Apple cider vinegar rinse
- Activated charcoal paste
While these remedies may provide minimal results in terms of removing surface stains, they also come with potential risks. For example, brushing with baking soda can be too abrasive and cause damage to tooth enamel. Oil pulling with coconut oil may not be effective for all types of stains and can lead to stomach discomfort if swallowed in large amounts. Apple cider vinegar can erode tooth enamel, and activated charcoal can absorb medication and nutrients from the body.
Professional teeth whitening treatments
Professional teeth whitening treatments contain high concentrations of the bleaching agent.
According to WebMD, professional whitening treatments contain high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, from 15 to 43 percent. In contrast, home or drugstore whitening treatment systems typically contain 3 to 20% peroxide.
The higher concentration in gel form allows dentists to complete the teeth whitening process more quickly. Another advantage is that dentists have tools that help them control where to apply the bleaching solution, so they can easily prevent it from landing on the gums and causing irritation.
Nevertheless, no dentist can provide a guarantee that you will be free from tooth and gum sensitivity following the treatment. All bleaching agents can cause sensitivity by weakening teeth, as they may slightly demineralize enamel and make teeth more porous.
The high cost may not suit everyone
The cost of professional whitening is expensive, ranging from $150 to $600. So if you want professional treatment to avoid the risks of home whitening methods, but don’t want to pay a huge sum of money, talk to your dentist about alternative options. They may be able to suggest a reliable brand of whitening strips or create a custom whitening tray for your teeth that you can use at home for less.
How to maintain bright and white teeth.
Whether you choose to whiten your teeth at home or opt for professional treatment, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to keep your teeth looking bright and white. Here are some tips on how to maintain a healthy smile:
- Ensure optimal oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day using a whitening toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and prevent stains from developing in between teeth.
- Limit your intake of foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and wash away food particles.
- Consider using a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages to minimize contact with your teeth.
- Make it a habit to schedule regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups. This will help maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
By following these tips and maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, you can keep your teeth looking bright and white for longer, regardless of the whitening method you choose. Remember that every person’s teeth are different, so what works for one individual may not work for another. Be sure to consult with your dentist before starting any whitening treatment to determine the best option for you. And always remember, a beautiful smile is not just about having white teeth, but also maintaining healthy teeth and gums. So choose what’s right for you and enjoy your bright, healthy smile!
