Tooth Whitening

It is a process that lightens the color of teeth. The whitening process is most effective on mildly discolored teeth. Darker stains such as those caused by antibiotics, take longer to respond to treatment. Tooth lightening is ideal for patients who have healthy , unrestored teeth (no fillings) and would like a brighter smile. Not recommended for people having sensitive teeth.

What causes tooth discoloration?

There are many causes. The most common factors are age, tobacco, coffee, or tea. Other types of stains can be caused by antibiotics, such as tetracycline; or too much fluoride.

What are most popular tooth whitening treatments available and how they work?

1. At home tooth bleaching kits
In a bleach based tooth whitener kit, you apply a tooth bleaching agent to a mouth tray then insert the tray into your mouth. Most of the trays are worn for an hour.

These products contain peroxide(s), which actually bleach the tooth enamel. These products typically rely on percent carbamide peroxide as the bleaching agent, carbamide peroxide comes in several different concentrations (10%, 16%, 22%).

Peroxide-containing whiteners typically come in a gel and are placed in a mouthguard. Usage regimens vary. Some products are used for about twice a day for 2 weeks, and others are intended for overnight use for 1-2 weeks. We recommend this Arctic White Tooth Whitening Kit which is really effective and one of the best.

2. Tooth whitening strips
These are placed on the teeth and are usually removed after wearing for 30 minutes. These are one of the most effective and affordable treatment for the whitening of teeth. The best whitening strips available are Crest Whitestrips They are highly recommended! Read the customer's reviews of Crest Whitestrips here. They also have peroxides as their main ingredient.

3. Toothpastes
All toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives. "Whitening" toothpastes have special chemical or polishing agents that provide additional stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these products do not alter the intrinsic color of teeth. If you wish to use whitening toothpaste, we recommend Colgate Simply White Advanced Whitening Toothpaste which is probably the best out there.