Teeth whitening is a process that can be accomplished through

several different systems, including whitening toothpastes,

over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays, and whitening agents

given by a dentist.Teeth whitening is an ideal solution for those

who have healthy, unrestored teeth with yellow tones.

 

Whitening toothpastes

 

Whitening toothpastes only deal with surface stains, while

professional whitening products can help lighten color deeper

in the tooth with hydrogen peroxide. Light-activated whitening in the dentist’s office, however, can lighten teeth by three to eight shades.

 

Whitening gels

 

Whitening gels are clear and peroxide-based. Gels are generally applied twice a day with a small brush over the course of two weeks. Results are usually seen within a few days and may last for about four months.

 

Whitening strips

 

Whitening strips are thin and coated with peroxide-based gel. These strips are usually applied twice a day for 30 minutes over the course of two weeks. Results are similar to those seen in whitening gels.

 

Whitening rinses

 

Whitening rinses are among the newest whitening products available and are similar to most mouthwashes in that they freshen breath and may reduce dental plaque and gum disease. Whitening rinses contain extra ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide, which manufacturer’s say will whiten teeth after 12 weeks of use. They are best used twice a day for 60 seconds before brushing, yet some experts claim that rinses are not as effective as other over-the-counter products because the rinse is only in contact with teeth for a short amount of time. Tray-based whitening systems involve wearing a tray filled with whitening gel that fits in your mouth. Depending on the amount of discoloration, one may need to wear the tray anywhere from a couple hours a day to every night for up to four weeks or longer.

 

In-office bleaching

 

In the dentist’s office, bleaching is the quickest teeth whitening solution. The products involved in bleaching may be used along with heat, light, and/or lasers. The process requires only a one-time treatment lasting only up to an hour. For best results, multiple appointments are recommended, however, in-office bleaching is the most expensive treatment available.

No teeth whitening process is permanent. Food, drinks, and heavy smoking may continue to stain teeth after any of the teeth whitening processes are completed. The length of time in which teeth stay white after a whitening process depends on many factors, including condition of one’s teeth, their avoidance of food and beverages that tend to stain teeth, and the type of whitening system they used.

 

Teeth whitening is not recommended for children under the age of 16, pregnant or lactating women, people with sensitive teeth, gum disease, or teeth with worn enamel, and those who are allergic to peroxide. Anyone with cavities should be treated before undergoing any kind of whitening procedure or they will risk the whitening product from entering the inner areas of their tooth, causing sensitivity. Fillings, crowns, and other dental restorations do not whiten. Smokers and those with darkly stained teeth (not including yellow) will see limited results and should discuss their options with a dentist before beginning treatment.

 

Side effects of teeth whitening include tooth sensitivity and irritation of soft tissues of the mouth. If sensitivity occurs, you can reduce it by using the at-home treatments for a shorter period of time or by allowing your teeth to adjust to the whitening process by stopping the treatment for two to three days. Fluoride or potassium nitrate toothpastes may help.​