So, you want to brighten your smile? Start by choosing the best teeth whitening treatment for you. Many factors can influence your tooth-whitening selection. Do you prefer going to the dental office or whitening from the comfort of your home? How much are you willing to spend? How long do you want the process to take? With so many options available, you might feel indecisive. The good news is that finding a tooth-whitening solution doesn’t have to be hard. Explore your options and ask your dentist to help you find the perfect one for you!
How Can You Whiten Your Teeth?
Now that you have decided to whiten your teeth, the next step is to talk to your dentist. They can help you identify the cause of tooth discoloration and the type of stain. Extrinsic tooth stains, which exist on the tooth’s surface, can usually be removed with over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products. In contrast, intrinsic tooth stains located below the tooth’s surface might require in-office treatments. Your dentist can examine your teeth and recommend the best option for you.
1. Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are small custom-made coverings that a dentist bonds to your teeth to improve your smile’s appearance. Although this teeth-whitening option is expensive, your dentist may suggest veneers if bleaching is not an option for you. Porcelain veneers are generally painless, though some patients may experience discomfort and sensitivity to temperature after treatment. Because veneers are customized, the process may take several visits to the dentist. However, once the cosmetic procedure is complete, veneers can last up to 20 years.
Best for someone with stains that cannot be removed with bleaching agents.
2. Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening takes place at your dentist’s office. During the procedure, your dentist will apply a gel-like solution to your teeth and shine an activating light on the gel. This teeth-whitening option typically causes minimal pain, so there’s no need to be scared of the dentist’s chair. The treatment takes approximately an hour, and the results last longer than other whitening treatments.
Best for someone who wants to see results quickly.
3. Teeth Whitening Trays
You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) whitening trays or get custom-fitted trays from your dentist. OTC trays come with a peroxide-whitening gel that gently removes surface stains. If you’re looking for trays that fit perfectly, your dentist can make custom trays using impressions of your teeth. Plus, you can use these trays from the comfort of your home. Your dentist will instruct you to place a small amount of bleaching solution into the trays and wear them for up to four hours a day for a week or two.
Best for someone who wants professional whitening results from home.
4. Teeth Whitening Strips
Whitening strips are an excellent choice for at-home brightening. These dental strips have a whitening gel that adheres to your teeth, making it easy to wear them around the house while doing other tasks. This whitening option works well for people with slight tooth discoloration and healthy tooth enamel. Teeth whitening strips require some patience, as it may take days or even weeks before you start noticing a brighter smile. Whitening strips can be a cost-effective option compared with other treatments.
Best for someone who wants whiter teeth on a budget.
Choosing the Right Whitening Treatment
Choosing the right whitening treatment depends on your priorities. For gradual stain removal with minimal sensitivity, consider at-home whitening options. These take longer but offer a gentler approach. If you prioritize immediate results and are comfortable with a potentially stronger treatment, in-office whitening performed by your dentist might be the better fit. No matter your preference, consulting your dentist is key. They can assess your teeth, discuss your whitening goals, and recommend the safest and most effective option for a bright, healthy smile.
