There are a few different methods to achieve whiter teeth, but most will involve the application of carbamide peroxide-based gel, or hydrogen peroxide onto the surfaces of the teeth that are stained. These peroxide products are a form of bleach, which works to break up the stains to make them less concentrated. Other methods include sanding down the parts of the teeth that are stained to reveal fresh white teeth underneath, and sometimes UV light therapy.

There are at-home methods, as well as professional teeth whitening methods that are done at a dentist’s clinic. The method you choose to try out will depend on the severity of the staining and the overall condition of your teeth. It is safest to start this process by asking a dental professional for recommendations, as some of the methods can end up being quite harsh on your pearly whites.

There are a few tips to keep in mind post-whitening treatment to prolong the whitening effects for as long as possible, the first being to avoid consuming food or beverages that will stain your teeth such as coffee, tea, soy sauce, barbeque sauce, or dark chocolate. As well, consuming food or beverages that are acidic may break down the enamel on your teeth faster, allowing them to stain more easily. Smoking cigarettes can also cause unwanted staining of the teeth. Something that you should make sure to do after having your teeth whitened is to integrate the use of straws more regularly so that you can consume your favorite beverages such as coffee or juice but with minimal threat of staining. Additionally, it is important to keep up with good oral hygiene practices to maintain your beautiful smile for as long as possible.

There are four common approaches for whitening your teeth, including bleaching treatments that are typically performed in a dental office, and at-home options such as whitening trays, strips, and toothpaste. Having your teeth whitened in a dental office has proven to be the safest and most effective method, making it worth the time and money. Having the teeth whitening treatment done by a professional ensures that the whitening product is used properly and that you are fully informed of aftercare to prolong the desired results. While at-home options can be more cost-effective, the process of teeth whitening will usually involve harsh chemicals and can lead to damage to your teeth and enamel if not executed exactly as intended.

More often than not, it is very much worth the time and money it takes to have your teeth whitened in a dental office by a dental professional. Due to the harmful nature of the chemicals required for whitening, having someone that knows exactly how to perform the treatment, including how long the product should be on the teeth, and how to properly prep the teeth can make all the difference in how long you will be able to enjoy the results of the treatment. The aftercare makes a huge impact on the results as well, so a professional will be able to provide strict instructions to allow you to get your money’s worth from the process.

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