There are plenty of advantages to whitening your teeth. When it’s done safely, you really can’t go wrong. Just some of the benefits include:
- Making your smile look younger
- Improving your social life
- Creating a good first impression
- Helping you feel more confident
Cheap Paths to a Brighter Smile
Of course, you can get your teeth whitened by your dentist, but are there less expensive ways that work? Let’s review five common ways people brighten their smile, and what you can expect.
1. Whitening toothpaste
There are many brands of whitening toothpaste. Some of them remove surface stains on your teeth. Many of them are abrasive and can scratch your tooth enamel. You’ll receive minimal results—if any—and if stains are trapped deep in your teeth, you probably won’t notice a difference with whitening toothpaste.
2. Whitening strips
Some strips will provide decent results depending on the strength of the peroxide in them. The higher the percentage of peroxide, the whiter your teeth will get. Remember not to overdo it. And keep the bleaching gel away from your gums.
3. Over-the-counter bleaching kit
The success of over-the-counter kits depends on the contents of the bleaching gel. Carbamide peroxide is the most effective bleaching agent. Bleaching trays need to fit well to keep the gel in contact with your teeth so it can penetrate them and break down stains. The gel in most kits is less than half the strength of what dentists offer, so it will take more whitening sessions to brighten your teeth.
4. Baking soda
Baking soda can help with minor stains, but it is also abrasive to your tooth enamel. You shouldn’t use it for an extended period. And if you have composite bonding on your teeth or other types of dental restorations, you shouldn’t use it at all.
5. Free teeth whitening
Yep – free teeth whitening. Did you know that some dentists offer it if you keep up with your regularly scheduled appointments for cleaning and exams? You will receive custom bleaching trays and professional-strength gel. The results? A dynamic smile.
This post is sponsored by Miranda Lacy DDS, a female dentist in Plano, TX who offers free teeth whitening.