Exploring Oral Health Symptoms, Issues and Solutions

Four Ways to Get Whiter Teeth

Many people feel more self-confident and willing to dazzle with their smile if they feel their teeth are white and healthy-looking. Of course, there are ranges in the natural colour of teeth so teeth whitening methods aren't always necessary to feel good about your smile. That said, stained teeth or the odd tooth which stands out because it has a different tone to the others can make you want to gain a more uniform appearance. The good news is that you can whiten your teeth in multiple ways nowadays. What are the most common teeth whitening methods?

  • Professional Cosmetic Treatments

Nearly all Australian dental clinics offer professional teeth whitening services these days. Often affording impressive results fast, these treatments utilise high-concentration bleaching agents. Your dentist will apply the whitening agent directly onto your tooth or teeth. A UV curing light is then used to activate the bleaching compound, thereby speeding up the whitening process considerably. Alternatively, ask your dentist about dental veneers which can smarten up the appearance of discoloured teeth while also covering up any chipped teeth you may have.

  • Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits

There are lots of whitening kits available at pharmacies these days. These kits tend to come with mouldable trays. You fill them with bleaching gel and place the trays against your teeth in your mouth. They're worn for a specified period. Although this varies according to the kit, you can expect to wear them for several nights in a row. It is vital to follow the product's guidelines closely because irritation may occur with this teeth whitening method. Overall, this approach does not often yield such lasting results as professional treatments.

  • Toothpaste and Mouthwash

Brushing your teeth with whitening toothpaste can actually do wonders for whitening your teeth, especially if it is backed up with a suitable mouthwash. These products typically contain mild abrasives or chemicals that help to get rid of surface stains from teeth rather than dealing with the root cause of discolouration. Used daily, these products will help to prevent new stains from occurring. They'll also gradually lighten teeth but don't expect overnight results from this approach to teeth whitening.

  • Brushed-In Baking Soda

Although natural teeth whitening won't be as potent as chemical methods, some natural solutions can help make teeth look whiter over time. For example, baking soda is known for its whitening properties. Indeed, it is often included in the formulations of many commercial whitening toothpastes. Using a homemade paste of baking soda and water is known to provide a natural effect that whitens teeth. Just brush it on and spit it out after a couple of minutes.

Using the above methods, especially in conjunction with one another, can leave you with a bright smile. For more information, contact a dentist near you who specializes in teeth whitening.


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