There are so many tooth whitening products on the market today. From bleaching gels and strips to trays and rinses, the options seem endless. To further complicate things, many treatments are readily available over-the-counter, or through your Salmon Arm, BC dentist.

If you have natural teeth and healthy gums, dental whitening may work well for you. However, it is always best to first consult with your dentist in Salmon Arm, BC before using any bleaching solutions.

Dental Whitening Solutions

Any toothpaste you choose has mild abrasives that help remove surface stains. The difference in whitening toothpaste is that it contains additional ingredients that enhance stain removal and polish the surface. Additionally, OTC whitening products don’t contain medical-grade bleaching agents. As a result, you may notice some improvement with proper use, but the effect is minimal. What’s more, it can take months to achieve the desired effect.

Mouthwash products are a great choice for freshening your mouth and brightening your smile. In addition, whitening rinses also help fight cavities and gum disease. With consistent use, many people achieve good results.

Tray-based whitening systems are very popular. Either you will fill the trays, or they are pre-filled with a bleaching gel. It is important to follow the instructions as directed to avoid tooth damage. The length of time you have to wear is determined by the degree of discoloration on your teeth. With OTC whitening kits, it can take a couple of weeks before you see any improvement.

No matter what option you choose, the whitening process may need to be repeated over time. You can extend your results by avoiding staining foods and beverages and practicing good oral hygiene habits.

Final results will also vary from person to person based on the condition of their teeth.