4 Types Of Teeth Whitening Products

Causes of Extrinsic Tooth Discoloration

Some eating, drinking and lifestyle habits can affect the shade of your teeth over time. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, these include the following:

• Smoking
• Red wine
• Coffee or tea
• Dark-coloured fizzy drinks
• Tomato sauces
• Dark-coloured fruits like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.

Thankfully, teeth whitening products can lift surface stains, and teeth whitening treatments performed by your dentist can have a noticeable result in very little time. Learn about the four different types of teeth whitening below.

1. Whitening Toothpaste and Rinses

You can easily swap your regular toothpaste and mouthwash for alternative options with whitening properties. Whitening toothpaste can contain mild abrasives to gently remove stains on the surfaces of the teeth while brushing. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), whitening mouthwash may include hydrogen peroxide or other whitening ingredients. There are even special whitening toothbrushes available to polish teeth without abrasion, using special condensed bristles.

2. Chewing Gum and Whitening Strips

Whitening, sugar-free chewing gum can help your teeth in multiple ways. First, chewing gum after meals stimulates saliva production to rinse away germs and food. Second, the chewing gum's whitening ingredients can coat the teeth to prevent staining. Keeping whitening gum with you to chew on after meals may help maintain results after your whitening treatment.

Whitening strips are small plastic strips with a peroxide gel that you apply to your teeth. Depending on the manufacturer's instructions, whitening strips can be used up to 30 minutes a day for up to two weeks to produce a noticeable whitening result.

3. Teeth Whitening Trays

Teeth whitening trays include one or more mouthguard-like trays with a gel-based whitening solution. You can buy teeth whitening trays at the store, or your dentist can create custom trays for you to use with a professionally dispensed whitening product. If you work with your dentist, they will take an impression of the teeth so that your tray can be made to fit your mouth. Over-the-counter trays have a lower concentration of peroxide than what is available from an in-office procedure. Just like whitening strips, teeth whitening trays may have to be used multiple days a week for up to two weeks for the best results.

4. In-Office Dental Whitening Treatment

Whitening treatment at your dentist's office can have longer-lasting results. First, your dentist will place a protective coating on the gum tissue and lips to protect them from the harsh whitening ingredients. Next, your dentist will apply the whitening gel and shine an ultraviolet lamp onto the teeth to activate the treatment. This process usually features a higher concentration of whitening ingredients than you'll find in products in the store. While in-office treatments cost more than over-the-counter products, the results are typically better and last longer.

Considerations Before Choosing Whitening Treatments

Teeth whitening results are not permanent and typically require touch-ups and further treatment to maintain whitening. As we continue to eat and drink acidic or dark-coloured foods and beverages, our teeth can accumulate surface stains.

It's important to have proper oral hygiene habits before using any teeth whitening treatment. Take care of any cavities or gum problems. Otherwise, you may experience tooth sensitivity issues or gum sensitivity. Speak with your dentist before using any teeth whitening treatment to ensure the safest way to achieve a whiter smile with the best possible results.

Keeping a healthy smile is of utmost importance, and maintaining good oral hygiene will keep your smile looking brighter longer. Store-bought whitening products are cost-effective and easy to use. However, whitening treatment at your dentist's office can have longer-lasting results.

Your dental professional can make recommendations and advise you on the best whitening treatment for you.

Disclaimer:

The above information is provided for informational purposes only. Colgate does not accept any liability should the above recommendations have an outcome contrary to the intended result. Always seek the advice of a qualified doctor or dental professional. Do not disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

Not all Colgate products contain hydrogen peroxide. Optic White Expert is the only product in our toothpaste range that contains hydrogen peroxide.