Are you considering whitening your teeth? Here is a list of the several options available and other facts about teeth whitening procedures you should know about.

Types of Whitening

• In-Office Whitening: This remedy is done by your dentist and is the most effective. The whitening lasts longer, the agent is more potent, and your dentist can lighten your teeth 3-8 shades. A peroxide bleach and special light/laser are used in this procedure.
• Whitening Gels: This at-home remedy applies a peroxide gel to the teeth using a brush or a mouth guard.
• Whitening Strips: These are clear, thin, peroxide-coated strips applied to the teeth.
• Whitening Toothpaste: This method doesn’t use peroxide, but rather abrasives and chemicals that fight surface stains.

Facts about Whitening

• There is no evidence that whitening harms tooth enamel or dental restorations.
• At-home treatments usually take an hour or two a day for several weeks while in-office bleaching takes one appointment.
• Only yellow teeth can whiten effectively. Brown or gray teeth may not whiten well or at all.
• Whitening (especially the at-home remedies) can irritate the gums or cause tooth sensitivity.
• Whitening doesn’t lighten dental restorations like fillings.
• Whitening isn’t permanent and needs to be touched up occasionally.
• Your teeth will still stain after whitening procedures, especially with the consumption of red wine, coffee, and tea.