How Can I Get Whiter Teeth? A Guide to Teeth Whitening Methods

From simple products for teeth whitening to treatments from a dental clinic, there are several ways to whiten teeth. Each has its own unique benefits. When considering how to whiten the teeth of a person, the best choice may depend on the type of stains. Mild surface stains (extrinsic staining) from coloured foods and drinks often respond to at-home options. Deeper teeth stains that originate from within the teeth may need advanced professional treatments.

People often choose a whitening method based on their goals, needs and budget. Below are the different types of whitening options you may consider to brighten your smile.

It is performed by a dental professional in a clinic and usually involves bleaching. This tooth whitening procedure uses safe, high-concentration bleaching gels. They are typically made of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The dental professional applies the gel to your teeth using thin guard trays. Sometimes, blue light or a laser is used to activate the bleaching gel and enhance the results.

Professional teeth whitening is safe and ideal for deeper teeth stains, as it is supervised by an expert. It offers dramatic results and visibly whiter teeth in a short span of time, usually in one sitting. You will also be guided on how to maintain the results.

If you prefer teeth whitening at home but with a professional touch, a whitening kit from a dentist is a good choice. It includes a professional-strength whitening gel and a tray to hold it. The tray is customised to snugly fit your teeth and limit the gel from contacting your gums and irritating them. You may place the gel in the tray and wear it on your teeth for a specific duration, as told by your dentist.

Teeth whitening kits deliver results gradually, typically over 2-4 weeks, when used as directed. They are ideal for mild to moderate discolouration. You can whiten your teeth at your own pace from the comfort of your home. Besides flexibility, convenience, this home bleaching option offers results similar to in-office bleaching.

They offer a safe, convenient and affordable way to whiten teeth from the comfort of your home. Over-the-counter whiter teeth products are easy to include in your daily oral care routine. They include:

• Teeth Whitening Toothpaste: It usually contains mild abrasives and polishing agents. They scrub away dirt and surface stains from teeth for a cleaner look. Some toothpastes contain whitening agents that lighten stains. Though hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent, it is not available in toothpastes due to strict regulations in India. Rather, you may look for toothpaste with an advanced, enamel-safe whitening formula.

  For instance, the Colgate Visible White Toothpaste contains advanced whitening accelerators. They exfoliate stains on the tooth surface and polish your teeth while strengthening the tooth enamel. The toothpaste delivers real results starting in just 1 week when used as directed. Its enamel-safe formula makes it a good choice for daily use. 

• Teeth Whitening Strips: They are thin strips with a pre-applied whitening serum or peroxide-based gel. You can wear it on your teeth for a specified duration. The whitening agent in the serum gently bleaches and lightens the stains when used as directed. These strips provide an easier at-home whitening option than store-bought trays, which are often cumbersome and fit poorly.

• Whitening Rinses: Mouthwashes wash away food debris and harmful germs. Some contain mild bleaching agents that help clean teeth and subtly brighten your smile. However, it is important to use whitening rinses with caution. Look for mild, enamel-safe formulations suggested by a dental professional. A mouthwash can complement your whitening regimen and is not a replacement for good oral care habits. 

Over-the-counter whitening products work best for mild surface stains. They whiten teeth gradually with regular use. If you want to whiten teeth instantly, it is best to consider professional whitening treatment.

When it comes to achieving a brighter smile, your choices abound. Whitening products and in-office treatments use a variety of ingredients. Each has its own unique mechanism of stain removal. Some target mild surface stains caused by pigmented foods and drinks, such as berries, coffee and red wine. Others target tougher stains on the dentine layer below the enamel. Understanding how they work can help you choose the best ways to brighten your smile.

The teeth whitening process typically works by removing stains and lightening the tooth shade. However, it only restores your natural tooth; it does not change it completely. The following mechanisms and ingredients are typically involved:

• Abrasion for Surface Stains: Whitening toothpastes typically contain mild abrasives, like hydrated silica, that scrub away surface stains. Most whitening toothpastes work by gently polishing your teeth without bleaching. This makes them enamel-safe and ideal for daily use. Some toothpastes contain activated charcoal. However, using them requires caution as their abrasive nature may wear down the enamel over time.

• Bleaching for Deeper Stains: Professional treatments, dentist-supervised whitening kits and some teeth bleaching products use peroxides. These are typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which bleach teeth. These agents work by oxidation of stains. They release oxygen, which breaks down the stain-causing molecules and lightens the tooth shade. In India, hydrogen peroxide is a regulated ingredient and not sold in over-the-counter products.

An ideal alternative is the Colgate Visible White O2 Toothpaste, which delivers similar results. It uses Active Oxygen technology to whiten teeth from the inside out. It releases millions of oxygen molecules that lighten stains on the surface and deep within. The formula also includes fluoride that protects the enamel, making it ideal for daily use. You may notice visibly white teeth starting in just 3 days when used as directed.

Maintaining your whitened teeth requires consistent oral care and a few mindful habits. Whether you choose teeth whitening at home or from a dentist, retaining the results requires preventing fresh stains. Improving oral hygiene and checking factors that stain teeth are key. Here are some simple tips to keep your teeth brighter for longer:

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily. Use an enamel-safe whitening toothpaste to prevent stains from building up. Floss once daily to remove food particles from between teeth and areas where the toothbrush cannot reach. Rinse thoroughly after every meal to wash away food residues before they stain your teeth.

• Watch Your Diet: Limit the consumption of foods and drinks that cause surface stains. These include tea, coffee, red wine, berries and dark-coloured sauces. They contain compounds called tannins that let pigments stick to the tooth surface, leading to tooth discolouration. If you consume these foods, rinse your mouth immediately. You may also use a straw to avoid direct contact with stain-causing beverages.

• Quit Smoking: Use of tobacco products and smoking can cause stubborn teeth stains that dull your smile.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. It helps wash away food particles and maintain saliva flow to naturally protect your teeth from staining.

• Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: They are vital to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. Regular cleanings from a dentist can help remove stains and maintain your whitening results.

Teeth whitening procedures can be a safe and effective way to achieve a whiter smile. With proper care and maintenance, you can preserve your bright smile for years to come. You may consider Colgate Visible White products for daily touch-up and protection from stains. Their enamel-safe formula helps brighten your smile and protects your oral health at the same time. Good oral hygiene, mindful habits and regular dental visits are key to a healthy, bright smile.

1. How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?

   They can last for a few months to a couple of years, depending on the whitening method chosen. Professional treatments use potent whitening agents, so the results last longer. Teeth whitening products deliver gradual results with consistent use. Your oral care, diet, and lifestyle habits also affect how long your teeth stay white.

2. Does Teeth Whitening Work on All Teeth?

   Whitening methods work best on natural teeth. However, they cannot change the colour of dental restorations like fillings, crowns or veneers.

3. Who is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

   Most people with healthy teeth and gums can opt for teeth whitening. Individuals with sensitive teeth and gums, gum recession, crowded or misaligned teeth and dental restorations should consult a dental professional first.