Exploring Oral Health Symptoms, Issues and Solutions

4 Safe and Effective Ways to Acheive a Whiter Smile

If you want a whiter smile, you are not alone; there is great demand for teeth-whitening products, which is why there are so many on the market. But are these the best way to achieve white teeth? Read on to find out how to achieve the dazzling smile of your dreams in the safest and most effective ways.

1. Check your whitening toothpaste

Long-term use of whitening toothpastes can be potentially harmful to the teeth as they contain silica; silica is an abrasive agent added to whitening toothpastes to slough off the surface stains on your teeth quickly and easily. However, this can come at a cost because, while the silica is effective at removing staining, it could also be removing some of your precious tooth enamel, weakening it to the point where the teeth could be damaged by bacteria and plaque.

Therefore, when buying a whitening toothpaste, look for one that has baking soda in it instead. This will be a lot gentler on your teeth, and, because baking soda is also effective at removing surface stains on the teeth, you'll still get the white smile you desire.

 2. Go for a custom fit

While it's possible to buy tray-based whitening systems over the counter, it's best to have your dentist make a custom-fitted tray, which will be precisely made for your mouth from impressions made of your teeth in the office. These trays are comfortable and the whitening itself is quick and effective; you simply place a peroxide-based gel in the trays and leave it on your teeth for the amount of time your dentist suggests, which is usually between 30 minutes and an hour. 

3. Create a stunning backdrop

If you want your teeth to look whiter, make sure you take care of your gums, as nice pink gums will make your smile look even brighter. Bleeding, red gums will do the opposite, plus they probably mean you have gingivitis. For healthy gums, floss regularly and make sure you are brushing your teeth at a 45° angle.

4. Leave it in the hands of your dentist

A great way to get your bright smile in a safe and timely manner is to have it done by your cosmetic dentist. Dentists use a bleaching solution that is generally stronger than at-home kits, and, for more dramatic results, this is often paired with heat or light. And, while in-office whitening may cost more than at-home treatments, it is the safest way to whiten your teeth because you are being monitored by a professional the whole time.


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