What teeth-whitening solutions work?
What's been proven to get teeth dazzling if there's no conclusive evidence that coconut oil whitens teeth? Below are the many ways you can make your teeth whiter at home or at the dental clinic.
At-home whitening
Effective over-the-counter whitening products contain natural products, like baking soda or xylitol. However, many use the super-effective bleaching agents hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide – applied in varying degrees depending on the product.
Some products come with LED light to further activate whitening your teeth. Home whitening products include:
- Toothpaste: Ensure the toothpaste you buy contains fluoride. Use during your twice-daily brushing.
- Mouthwash: Use when you rinse your mouth daily.
- Strips: Follow the package directions to apply the strips containing a thin layer of a bleaching agent to your teeth.
- Pen: Perfect for when you're on the go, you can use this pen to whiten your teeth any time.
- Gel trays: Available where dental products are sold, these trays can be used at home by following the package directions.
Professional whitening
Talk to your dentist about professional in-clinic whitening for a brilliant smile. The options include:
- Customised tooth-whitening gel trays: Customised trays can be more effective and better at protecting your gums than over-the-counter trays. And if you prefer, you can use them at home.
- Bleaching gel and laser combo: Though delivering the most effective results, the out-of-pocket costs might not be within your budget. But the procedure might be worth it to you.
Discuss all options with your dental professionals. Whatever option you choose, using fluoridated whitening toothpaste as part of your regular oral care regimen can keep your teeth white.
Oil pulling might be popular in some circles, but in the end its whitening and oral health benefits are inconclusive. If you really want whitening results, rely on the ingredients that have been proven to work. And then show off your whiter, brighter teeth to the world!