A whiter smile is a highly desired physical trait. When your teeth are whiter they look healthier, which makes your smile more attractive. It is normal for teeth to yellow or become dull over time due to the food and beverages we consume and the natural aging process of your teeth. But there are teeth whitening products and treatments available that can brighten your smile.
Of all the whitening products available, what’s the best way to whiten your teeth? Here are the top rated options.
Whitening Options Ranked
The following teeth whitening products and treatments are ranked in order from least effective to most effective:
- Whitening toothpaste. There are many different types of toothpaste that claim to whiten your teeth. In fact, it can even be difficult to find toothpaste that doesn’t include whitening ingredients. Whitening toothpaste may remove some surface stains and whiten your teeth a shade or two, but you most likely will not get dramatic results. Also, whitening toothpaste often includes abrasive ingredients such as baking soda that is good for scrubbing away stains, but may also wear down your enamel, causing sensitivity and increased risk of tooth decay. These are the reasons that whitening toothpaste is considered to be the least effective option.
- Whitening wands. Some teeth whitening products come in liquid form that you can apply or paint onto your teeth with a wand or brush. These are more effective than whitening toothpaste because the whitening agent is more highly concentrated. However, it washes off your teeth quickly when you close your lips and may not stay on long enough to effectively whiten your teeth.
- Whitening strips. To prevent the whitening agent from rubbing or washing off, whitening strips are made of clear plastic film that you apply to your teeth. Whitening strips hold the whitening agent against your teeth while it is activated by your saliva. The plastic strip allows you to relax your lips without fear of washing off the whitening agent. These are likely the most effective products you can buy over the counter.
- Professional whitening at home. Professional teeth whitening treatments include a stronger whitening agent that is capable of providing dramatic results. There are treatments you can get from your dentist to use at home. At home teeth whitening includes a custom tray your dentist will make to fit your teeth. You’ll use this tray to apply your whitening treatment evenly over the surface of your teeth. Your dentist will instruct you on how long and how often to use your whitening trays at home to get your desired results. In as little as 2 weeks you’ll have noticeably whiter teeth that can last for up to a year. Periodic touch-ups can help prolong your results.
- Professional whitening in the dentist’s office. The most effective way to whiten your teeth is to get a professional whitening treatment in your dentist’s office. In-office treatment is applied to your teeth by your dentist with a rubber shield or protective gel over your gums to prevent irritation. A special type of light is used to activate the whitening agent and accelerate the whitening process. In just one treatment you will see dramatic results that can last for 1-3 years. Some treatments include a take-home touch-up kit to help your teeth stay white between in-office treatments.
Where To Get Professional Teeth Whitening
If you want a noticeably whiter smile, professional teeth whitening treatments are available from some dental offices. Paramount Dental Arts provides professional teeth whitening treatments that are effective and safe for your teeth. We offer teeth whitening because we believe that your teeth should look just as healthy as they are, giving you a smile you can feel confident about.
Call 973-777-1772 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.