2. Customised tray for home use. This procedure is similar to the in-office bleaching but the patient does the bleaching at home with a milder formula of the bleaching gel. After wearing the trays for about an hour a day for two weeks, the teeth will whiten to an acceptable color. This procedure is less costly than in-office bleaching and is controlled by the patient, which is great for those with sensitive teeth.
3. Use of whitening toothpaste. This is the least expensive but also least effective way of whitening your teeth. Most adults only brush their teeth for an average of 45 seconds, and it is very difficult for teeth to whiten in that amount of time. The gel used in toothpaste is not as strong as what a dentist can prescribe to you in the other two methods. Some people will experience decent results after a professional cleaning by the dental hygienist and then using the whitening toothpaste.
Two other methods have the ability to whiten teeth, but they are not recommended. They are costly and there is a potential danger of causing sensitivity to the teeth and gums:
1. Whitening strips. These strips have a weakened version of the bleaching gel used by the dentist, but application of the strips can be difficult for the patient, and does not work on teeth that are not perfectly straight. The material on the strip can also burn the surrounding gums if the strip is not properly applied.
2. Whitening by light or laser. Although patients undergoing this procedure report dramatic initial whitening of their teeth, the teeth often "rebound" back to their original colour. There have also been cases reported in which patients' teeth become extremely sensitive to hot and cold foods and fluids.
Professional teeth whitening done by your dental team will provide you with a healthy looking smile. Remember: When selecting a whitener or any dental product, look for a tried and trusted brand that gives you the assurance of safety and efficacy.
