Studies show that a person’s smile is one of the first things we notice about them. So, it’s no surprise that a healthy, confident smile is at the top of most people’s wish list. But over time, staining and other causes start to make your teeth lose their natural luster. While the Internet is full of DIY teeth whitening methods, it’s important to know what’s safe and what isn’t when it comes to finding the best way to whiten teeth. Learn the safe methods for teeth whitening from Dr. Larry at Schmakel Smile Design, and discover the dangers of one of the most commonly recommended home whitening solution.
List of Safe Teeth Whitening Methods
#1. Professional In-Office Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is a popular method for improving the look of your teeth. The biggest benefit to in-office teeth whitening is the use of highly concentrated whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide, which offers quicker and more significant results compared to over-the-counter options. You also have the benefit of having the procedure overseen by your dentist, who can ensure the highly potent whitening agent is used effectively without risking damage to your teeth.
If you’re looking for a way to drastically whiten your teeth without multiple visits, we offer Zoom whitening, allowing you to whiten your teeth significantly in just one visit. Many patients are able to achieve up to 8 shades of whitening in just a single one-hour visit. Schedule a free consultation today to find out if the Zoom whitening procedure may be right for you.
#2. Home Whitening Trays
If you’re more interested in whitening your teeth at home, custom-fitted whitening trays may be a better option. These trays are designed by taking impressions of your upper and lower teeth, then using those impressions to design personalized molds. Using a specialized carbamide peroxide gel, which then converts to hydrogen peroxide, you can wear these trays for a short period of time each night to improve the look of your teeth. They are simple to use, and bring impressive results over just a few weeks.
For only $99.00, Schmakel Smile Design offers a whitening for life program, which can help you keep your smile looking its best. When you join this program, you receive whitening gel and custom trays to whiten at home, and as long you have two cleanings per year, complimentary whitening gel is given to the patient at each cleaning visit! In this way, one can continue your journey to a brighter, whiter smile at an unbelievably affordable price!
#3. ADA-Approved Whitening Toothpaste
Specialized whitening toothpaste is another option for whitening your teeth. While regular toothpastes include ingredients that help clean teeth, toothpastes designed to whiten your teeth include additional chemicals or abrasives that help remove stains. These can be far cheaper than specific whitening solutions, but not nearly as effective.
In some cases, whitening toothpastes instead contain a product called blue covarine that leaves a blue film on your tooth enamel. While this film doesn’t contribute to helping clean your teeth of stains, the film causes your teeth to look whiter while it remains.
The most important thing to do with any whitening toothpaste, or any over-the-counter dental health product is to look for the ADA Seal. This seal, from the American Dental Association, indicates that the product has passed the ADA’s guidelines for effectiveness. These guidelines require proof of performance, including studies that back up the claims made by the product company.
What About Apple Cider Vinegar for Teeth Whitening?
One frightening method for teeth whitening that has become increasingly popular lately is the use of apple cider vinegar. It’s important to understand how dangerous this substance is for your teeth, and why it should never be used as “homemade remedy” for teeth whitening. It is true that apple cider vinegar can whiten your teeth, but in doing so, it will likely cause permanent damage to your enamel that will lead to weakened teeth and more severe issues over time.
The pH level of apple cider vinegar is around 3, which is nearly equivalent to stomach acid. Some sources recommend you can avoid the damage by brushing immediately after rinsing with apple cider vinegar. This will not help and can surprisingly cause more damage! The intense acids in apple cider vinegar will leave your teeth vulnerable, and the abrasion from brushing will harm them far more than it helps. Any time your teeth come into contact with acidic substances, like apple cider vinegar or soda, it’s best to rinse your mouth with water and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
Tips to Help Keep Teeth White
In many cases, teeth whitening is only necessary when your teeth have amassed stains over years. Proper dental care can’t prevent every instance of staining, but there are several ways you can help keep your teeth looking great without the use of teeth whitening products:
Brush and floss regularly – A good dental care routine minimizes bacteria growth and washes away potentially staining substances.
Visit the dentist at least twice annually – Your dentist can offer more thorough methods of cleaning, and help guide you in the purchase of additional mouth washes or specialized toothpastes if needed.
Avoid foods that cause stains – Drinks like coffee, soda, and juice can cause stains, especially if you’re drinking them daily. Not to mention that they often contribute to tooth decay! Stick to water to avoid this problem and help keep your teeth clean too.
Don’t use tobacco – This includes smoking or chewing. In addition to other well-known health issues, it’s guaranteed to stain your teeth.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation for Whitening Your Teeth!
The dental professionals at Schmakel Smile Designs can help you decide which whitening method will be best for you. Make an appointment, or call us at (419) 841-9494.
We are proud to be your dentist in Toledo, near Sylvania. For more information about what we do, contact Schmakel Smile Design:
Phone: (419) 841.9494
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.toledodentistry.com.
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