Are you thinking about getting your teeth whitened? There are many options available; however, it can be confusing to know if you could benefit from the procedure. To find out which type of teeth whitening treatment would suit you best, you will want to explore your options with your dentist first. Speaking with your dentist about the range of treatments available at home or by a dental professional should guide you towards selecting which treatment would give you the best results.
How do I know if teeth whitening is for me?
First, you need to find out if you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening. Most adults who have had all their permanent teeth come in can be good candidates. Although, if you have had certain dental work done, you may not be able to have a teeth whitening procedure or use teeth whitening products. For example, if you have any veneers, dental implants, or crowns, you may not benefit from teeth whitening because it doesn’t work on porcelain or bonding materials.
If you are unsure if you can have a teeth whitening procedure, your dentist will be able to help determine if you would benefit from it and what would work best for you.
Teeth Whitening Procedures and Products
There are many teeth whitening options available which can be found in the three categories below:
Over-the-Counter (OTC) – these products include tooth whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels. Whichever product you choose to try, be sure that they have the ADA Seal of Acceptance stamp so that you are confident they are effective and safe to use.
In-Office – these cover any treatments that your dentist will do. Teeth whitening procedures that your dentist completes will achieve the best and fastest results as they use formulas that are stronger than what you can buy OTC.
At-Home – your dentist can supply you with teeth whitening products for you to take home. Your dentist will discuss your options during your appointment and create a custom tray to fit your mouth perfectly.
The key to getting the best teeth whitening results is always consulting your dentist and exploring your options first. If you decide to use an over-the-counter product, please be advised to follow the instructions and to let your dentist know if you experience any persistent discomfort afterward.