The Best (and safest) Ways to Whiten Teeth

Take a look at 7 effective to whiten your teeth without damaging them

By Dr. Stephanie Vera, DDS

With all the different options, these days it can be difficult to know what are the safest ways to whiten your teeth. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, but not all are created equal! Using the wrong method can damage your teeth, causing enamel loss, increased sensitivity, yellowing, and even tooth fracture. That's why it's important to choose a method that is both effective and safe for long-term use. Here are seven ways to achieve a brighter smile!

 1.       Switch to an Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual ones at removing surface stains. Using vibrations, electric toothbrushes break up extrinsic stains and minimize the formation of new ones.

2.       Use Whitening Toothpaste

All toothpastes contain a mild abrasive to gently clean stains from the surface of the teeth, but products marketed for whitening also have a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide to brighten your smile – but only about one to two shades. It is also important to choose a toothpaste that has the ADA seal of approval. Toothpaste that is too rough can damage your enamel with long-term use and actually make your teeth appear more yellow.

3.       At-Home Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are a convenient and safe way to remove stains from your teeth. They use a peroxide-based gel and are applied for 10-30 minutes each day for about two weeks. Because the strips are not custom fit, the active whitening ingredient can cause gum sensitivity. It is also a good idea to have a dental check-up before using whitening strips, as the peroxide gel shouldn’t come into contact with tooth decay.

4.       Custom Whitening Trays

For anyone who wants more dramatic results but not the high price, dental offices can provide professional whitening systems to patients whose teeth and gums are healthy enough for stronger whitening. Using custom trays for whitening is less expensive than doing it in the dental office, but it can still take a week or so to see noticeable results.

5.       In-Office Whitening

Professional teeth whitening takes place at your dentist’s office and provides dramatic, lasting results in only one dental visit. A high concentration of carbamide or hydrogen peroxide is applied for several 15 minute sessions using a UV light to speed up the whitening process. Since it is performed by a dental professional,  in-office whitening reduces the risk of tooth sensitivity and gum irritation since it is professionally applied.

6.       Veneers

Since crowns, bridges, and fillings do not whiten, anyone who has numerous dental restorations or discoloration from tetracycline or fluorosis should consider veneers rather than chemical whitening systems. While veneers aren’t exactly a teeth whitening method, because they cover the teeth, they can change a tooth’s shape, size, and color to improve the appearance of your smiles and create that vibrant white you may be looking to achieve!

7.       Minimize Stains

With use and age, our teeth will naturally discolor and lose their bright, white sparkle. As our enamel thins with time, the underlying dentin becomes more visible – and this tooth layer is naturally yellow in color. Even without tooth erosion, tobacco use and certain foods and drinks play a significant role in creating stains. Some examples include:

·   Citric and Acidic Foods: Tomatoes, oranges, and other citrus fruits can cause thinning of the enamel

·   Berries: While berries are full of antioxidants, their vibrant color is known to cause stains

·   Tea, Coffee, and Sodas: The high acidity and deep colors of tea, coffee, and sodas can cause thinning of the enamel and cause surface staining

·   Red and White Wine: While red wines can stain your teeth, white wine can make existing stains darker by creating small holes on the surface of your teeth that allow other stains to seep in.

With our busy lives, it may be hard to completely eliminate stain causing food and drink, but minimizing them, drinking lots of water, and using any of the above whitening products – either alone or together - can help minimize discoloration and keep our teeth looking as white as possible! Remember, the most common side effect of using whitening products is temporary tooth sensitivity. So, it's essential to find what works best for you, and a visit to the dentist is always a great place to start!

Dr. Stephanie Vera is a general dentist practicing in Murphy, Texas. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and believes education and prevention are essential to a happy, healthy smile.