What is the Best Way to Whiten Teeth?

Many people wish their teeth were whiter. After all, who doesn’t want a gleaming, megawatt smile? So it’s no surprise that teeth whitening is the top cosmetic dentistry procedure most individuals request. But with so many products claiming to whiten your teeth, how do you know if the products really will work? Or, is professional in-office whitening at a dentist right for you? 

Talk with Your Dentist

Your best source for information about teeth whitening will be your dentist. That’s because not all whitening products or treatments will work well for everyone. Your dentist will know which treatment to recommend based on the type of stains and discoloration you wish to lighten.

Your dentist will also be extremely helpful in helping you choose the best whitening product or treatment based on the presence of dental restorations, such as crowns, or bridges. Because crowns and bridges will not whiten with whitening toothpaste, gels, or mouthwashes, you’ll want to get advice from your dentist on what steps you need to take to get a brighter, whiter smile.

Use Professional Strength Whiteners

Many people don’t get the results they want from whitening strips they buy in the store or online. These products aren’t professional strength, so they don’t offer the same, powerful whitening capabilities that professional in-office teeth bleaching, or custom-made bleaching trays and professional whitening agents provide. 

In-office teeth bleaching can typically be completed in one hour.  During the treatment, your gums will be protected with gel or a rubber shield. The dentist or hygienist will apply a professional strength bleaching agent to your teeth. You will then have a specialized light placed in front of your mouth, which serves to activate the whitening agent. The entire in-office whitening treatment takes less than an hour, and you’ll leave with brighter, whiter teeth.

Take home teeth whitening treatments also use professional-strength whitening agents. However, you’ll be responsible for whitening at home. If you opt for take-home whitening, an impression of your teeth will be taken, and a custom bleaching tray will be made just for you. You’ll put the gel into the tray and wear it at home, at your leisure in keeping with your dentist’s instructions. 

Alternatives to Teeth Whitening

Unfortunately, not all of the stains on your teeth will be removed as a result of teeth whitening. This is because some types of stains won’t react to the peroxide whitening agents.  Likewise, keep in mind that only natural teeth can be whitened.  Tooth-colored fillings, dental implants, or crowns cannot be whitened. 

Porcelain veneers are one alternative to bleaching that you may consider. If you’re interested in a movie-star smile, veneers may be the way to go. Porcelain veneers result in a natural-looking, bright white smile. Veneers can also be used to cover gaps in teeth, uneven lengths of teeth, and give you perfectly shaped teeth. Veneers are more expensive than any form of teeth bleaching, but they can give you a brilliantly white smile.

Schedule a Consultation for Teeth Whitening in Vilonia

If you’re ready for a brighter smile in as little as one office visit, contact Lane Family Dentistry in Vilonia today. Our full-service dental practice provides teeth whitening along with other cosmetic dentistry services, and restorative dentistry treatments. Request an appointment or call 501-796-3903 today.