What is the Best Way to Whiten Teeth?

There are plenty of everyday things that can stain and discolour the surface of your teeth – including your daily tea or coffee, fruits like blackcurrants, red wine and smoking cigarettes. Staining can also be caused by plaque or tartar build up when it is not properly removed by daily brushing and flossing and, unfortunately, many of us notice natural discolouration in our teeth as we get older.1

Given all of this, it’s not surprising that you may be looking for the best way to whiten teeth, to help you get back to smiling with confidence with a whiter, brighter smile.

Read on to learn about teeth whitening, including a guide to teeth whitening products such as whitening toothpaste and strips, teeth whitening at home, and whether teeth whitening is safe to do at home.

IS TEETH WHITENING SAFE?

Just as with any other dental procedure, there are potential side effects and risks associated with teeth whitening, particularly when using ‘do it yourself’ products designed to be used at home. The most common side effects of both professional whitening and products such as at-home teeth whitening kits, gels or strips are increased tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. However, these side effects are generally only temporary and are likely to subside within two days of whitening treatment.1,2

If you are thinking of using a teeth whitening product, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist so that they can advise on whether teeth whitening is appropriate for you, and which are the best teeth whitening products to suit your oral health.1

Of course, you can also have your teeth whitened (or ‘bleached’) professionally by your dentist – however this is generally much more expensive than at-home teeth whitening. You dentist will first place a rubber shield to your gums to protect them before applying the whitening agent  (usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to your teeth. This will often be done using a mouth guard-like tray. The whitening agent then allows oxygen to affect your tooth enamel, lightening their colour.1