Obtaining a nice bright smile may be just what you are looking for. Not only is teeth whitening effective, it can also drastically change your smile and improve your self-esteem at the same time. Here is some information on teeth whitening so you are informed before you visit your dentist.

The ingredient in most teeth whitening products is either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients are what actually bleaches the enamel and makes your teeth whiter. The strength of the whitening treatment depends on the strength of the peroxide contained in the whitening product. The current percentages of peroxide in teeth whitening products are 10%, 16% and 22% and even stronger but warned against using unless supervised in a professional dental office.

If you are considering teeth whitening, be sure to review your options with your dentist first. Only your dentist can tell you if your teeth and gums are healthy enough to go through a whitening process. Your dentist will also want to make sure you are free from any dental cavities before proceeding. If your dentist has determined that you are a candidate to have your teeth whitened, you will need to decide which teeth whitening method to choose from. Most dental offices have a variety of options- some listed below.

Teeth Whitening Options

• In-Office Bleaching -- In-office teeth whitening offers excellent results. This procedure is performed in the dental office and can be done quickly, usually in a little over an hour. This may be expensive, but the time that you save by having immediate results can make this option appealing. This option will require custom made trays for you to take home to achieve optimum results.
• Teeth Whitening Trays and Gels -- Teeth whitening trays and gels are effective, but the desired results take longer to achieve than with in-office bleaching. Depending on the strength of peroxide in the gel, these clear trays are usually worn a couple of hours a day or overnight and could take anywhere from 3 days to a couple of weeks before any results are noticed. There are basically two types of teeth whitening trays and gels: Those purchased from your dentist and those purchased over the counter. While they will both whiten your teeth, the two have noted differences.

Teeth whitening kits from the dentist produce faster and more effective results because they contain a stronger peroxide-bleaching agent than whitening kits purchased over the counter. Another benefit of trays and gels from the dentist is that the trays are custom made and fit your teeth exactly. Over-the-counter trays are generic sized and could allow the bleaching agent to come into contact with your gums, causing irritation. You also want to be aware of the chemical product you are using. Read all ingredients carefully and if you need explanation, call your dentist.

• Teeth Whitening Strips -- Teeth whitening strips are popping up in every drug store across the nation. These whitening strips sold over the counter are fairly inexpensive, easy to use and most of them really work. Teeth whitening strips may take longer to produce the desired results depending on the strength of peroxide that they contain.

As you see, there are many options. Each system of whitening has their pros and con’s. Ask your dentist which would work best for you and the thickness of your enamel. Contact our office today to see which system will work best for you.