Which teeth whitener works best?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that aims to lighten the color of teeth and remove stains and discoloration. It is a popular treatment to improve the appearance of teeth, enhance one's smile, and boost self-confidence. Teeth can become discolored or stained for various reasons, including:

Why do teeth stain over time?

  • Extrinsic Stains: These stains occur on the outer surface of the teeth and are often caused by factors such as consuming dark-colored foods and beverages (coffee, tea, red wine), smoking, or poor oral hygiene.

  • Intrinsic Stains: These stains occur within the inner structure of the tooth and can be caused by factors like tooth trauma, certain medications, and excessive fluoride intake during tooth development.

Methods for teeth whitening

  • Professional In-Office Whitening: This is typically the most effective and fastest method. A dentist or dental hygienist applies a high-concentration bleaching gel to the teeth and may use a special light or laser to accelerate the whitening process. The entire procedure usually takes about an hour and can produce noticeable results in a single session.

  • At-Home Whitening Kits: Dentists can provide custom-made trays and a lower-concentration bleaching gel for use at home. These kits require consistent use over a specified period, usually a few weeks, to achieve the desired level of whitening.

  • Over-the-Counter (OTC) Whitening Products: These include whitening toothpaste, strips, gels, and rinses that can be purchased without a prescription. OTC products typically have lower concentrations of active whitening ingredients and may take longer to show noticeable results.

  • Natural Remedies: Some people try natural remedies like baking soda, activated charcoal, purple dye, or hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening. However, these methods may not be as effective as professional treatments and can potentially harm tooth enamel if used incorrectly. Contact Lilac Dentistry, before undergoing any teeth whitening procedure, especially if you have dental restorations like crowns or veneers, as these materials do not respond to whitening agents in the same way as natural teeth. Additionally, teeth whitening may not be suitable for individuals with certain dental conditions or allergies to whitening agents.

If you have any questions about your options for tooth whitening feel free to schedule an appointment with Dr. Oveson at the Lilac Dentistry serving the Salt Lake City, Sugar House, Millcreek, Holladay, Park City, and Murray areas.

While teeth whitening can provide significant improvements in the brightness of teeth, the results are not permanent. The duration of whitening effects can vary depending on factors like lifestyle habits and maintenance. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help maintain a brighter smile after teeth whitening.