Having whiter teeth can make a big difference in how your smile looks. Many people want whiter teeth but aren’t sure of the safest and most effective way to whiten them. There are a variety of tooth whitening options available, from over-the-counter whitening strips and toothpastes to professional in-office whitening treatments. When considering teeth whitening, you’ll want to understand the different methods, their risks and benefits, and how to get the best results safely.
What Causes Teeth to Become Discolored?
Over time, your teeth can become stained or discolored from a variety of sources:
- Food and Drink – Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can cause tooth discoloration over time.
- Tobacco Use – Smoking and chewing tobacco can stain and yellow teeth.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to plaque buildup that causes teeth to look dingy.
- Medications – Some antibiotics like tetracycline can cause tooth discoloration.
- Genetics – Some people naturally have yellower tooth enamel.
- Age – As you get older, the outer enamel layer of your teeth wears thin, revealing a more yellow inner layer.
- Trauma – Cracks and chips from injuries can discolor your teeth.
Understanding what is causing your tooth discoloration can help you choose the right whitening method.
Over-the-Counter Whitening Methods
There are a variety of over-the-counter teeth whitening products available at drugstores and grocery stores without a prescription. These are some of the most common types:
Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes can help remove surface stains with mild abrasives and chemical polishers. While they don’t contain bleaches, they can make your teeth appear a bit whiter by removing superficial discoloration. However, they do not dramatically change the natural color of your teeth.
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips are thin, flexible strips coated with a whitening gel. Popular brands include Crest Whitestrips and Listerine Whitening Strips. You place the strips over your teeth and leave them on for 30 minutes to one hour. Most strips must be used daily for 1-2 weeks to see results. The active ingredient is usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
Whitening Rinses
Whitening mouthwashes can also help remove surface stains. They contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide that help bleach teeth. However, because you only hold the rinse in your mouth for 60 seconds or less before spitting it out, the whitening effect is usually minimal.
Tray-Based Whiteners
Tray-based whitening systems fit like a mouth guard and are filled with a peroxide-based whitening gel. Well-known brands are Crest Whitestrips and Snow Teeth Whitening kits. You wear the trays for 1-2 hours daily for up to 2 weeks. This targets discoloration deeper in the teeth compared to strips.
Risks and Considerations
Over-the-counter whitening products can lighten your teeth a few shades with minimal risks. Potential side effects include:
- Tooth sensitivity or gum irritation – This usually resolves within 1-2 days after stopping use.
- Relapse – Teeth can re-stain over time without maintenance whitening.
- Does not work for all types of discoloration – For example, yellow-toned enamel or porphyry will not bleach.
These products are safe for most people when used as directed. However, you should consult your dentist first if you have:
- Tooth decay or gum disease – Whitening can irritate these conditions.
- Large fillings or crowns – Whitening does not affect them so they will stand out.
- Braces – Whitening gels can damage brackets.
Professional In-Office Whitening
For more dramatic whitening, professional treatments performed at your dentist’s office are the most effective option. There are two main types:
Whitening Rinse
The dentist will protect your gums with a rubber dam or gel. They will then apply a high concentration peroxide solution to your teeth with a brush for 15-20 minutes. The process may repeat up to 3 times in one visit. You may experience sensitivity for a couple days afterward. Results are seen after just one treatment.
Custom-Fit Trays
Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and have custom-fitted trays made. You will be given carbamide peroxide gel to place in the trays at home for 1-2 hours daily over 2-4 weeks. Check-ins are scheduled to monitor progress. This slower method may cause less sensitivity compared to in-office rinses.
Benefits of In-Office Whitening
Professional whitening provides the following benefits:
- Uses higher concentration whitening gels.
- Supervised for safety by a dentist.
- Custom trays prevent gel leaking onto gums.
- Can whiten teeth up to eight shades brighter.
- Faster initial results with rinse versus trays.
This level of whitening is not permanent, touch-ups may be needed annually. It is also not recommended for everyone:
- Pregnant or nursing women – Hormonal changes increase sensitivity risk.
- Teens – Teeth may still be developing.
- TMJ disorders – Holding trays may aggravate jaw joints.
- Gum disease – Whiten after gum treatment.
Natural Teeth Whitening Methods
Some people prefer natural teeth whitening approaches over peroxide-based products. Note that natural methods typically produce subtle lightening rather than dramatic whitening. Options include:
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Making a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can help lift stains due to the slight abrasiveness and whitening effect. However, frequent use can erode enamel over time.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Swishing diluted apple cider vinegar may have some whitening effect. But acids can weaken enamel, so use sparingly.
Blueberries
Blueberries contain pigments that can help remove bacteria on your teeth that cause stains.
Strawberries
Strawberries contain malic acid that can help whiten teeth. Crush them into a paste and apply.
Citrus Fruits and Veggies
Eating oranges, lemons, carrots, and other firm fruits/veggies helps scrub away plaque.
Risks of Natural Whitening
While natural teeth whitening options have minimal risks, be aware that:
- Results are less dramatic than professional whitening.
- Acidic foods like lemon can damage enamel over time.
- Harsh abrasives like charcoal may wear down enamel.
How to Choose the Safest Whitening Method
When deciding how to whiten your teeth, consider factors like:
- Your budget
- Degree of discoloration
- Tooth and gum sensitivity
- Lifestyle habits (drinking coffee, tea, red wine, etc.)
Here are some general guidelines for the safest whitening based on your needs:
Minor Discoloration
Over-the-counter strips or tray kits used periodically can brighten your smile a couple shades.
Moderate Staining
Whitening rinses at your dentist’s office provide fast results with moderate risk of sensitivity.
Heavy Staining
Custom trays from your dentist with prescription strength whitening gel can safely lighten teeth many shades without trauma.
Natural Whitening Only
Using items like strawberries, baking soda, and lemon in moderation can lift some surface stains gently over time.
Tips for Safely Whitening Teeth at Home
If you choose an at-home whitening method, keep these precautions in mind:
- Consult your dentist if you have tooth decay, cavities, or gum disease first.
- Select a reputable brand that uses ADA accepted ingredients like hydrogen peroxide.
- Carefully follow product instructions.
- Apply vaseline or lip balm to protect your gums and lips.
- Rinse your mouth well after use to prevent irritation.
- Avoid getting whitening gel on dental work like fillings, crowns, or implants.
- Store whitening products away from heat and light.
- Refrigerating opened gel can help it last longer.
- Stop if you experience pain or sensitivity and resume when it passes.
- Avoid staining foods and drinks for 48 hours after whitening.
Caring for Whitened Teeth
Preserving your bright smile involves:
- Practicing good oral hygiene – Brush twice and floss once daily.
- Getting regular dental cleanings every 6 months.
- Avoiding heavily pigmented foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and dark berries.
- Drink with a straw to minimize stains on your teeth.
- Chew sugar-free gum to produce more saliva that neutralizes acids and washes away stain-causing particles.
- Use an enamel-safe toothpaste daily.
- Continue occasional touch-up whitening treatments.
With proper care, whitened teeth can stay bright for years. Avoid behaviors that will re-stain your teeth and continue maintenance whitening. Also protect your enamel by using products safely according to guidelines.
When to See Your Dentist
Consult your dentist promptly if you experience any problems with at-home whitening like:
- Tooth or gum pain that lasts more than 1-2 days
- Visible gum irritation, redness, or swelling
- Allergic reactions like rash, itching, or throat swelling
- Rapid relapse or re-staining
Schedule regular dental visits every 6 months even if your teeth are healthy. Your dentist can identify conditions like cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and oral cancer early and treat them promptly for healthy whitened teeth.
The Safest Solutions for Whiter Teeth
While whitened teeth look attractive, it is critical to whiten your teeth safely to avoid permanent damage. Work with your dentist to choose the method that matches your budget, lifestyle, and dental needs. Follow product directions closely and take steps to prolong your bright smile. With the right whitening approach and good oral care, you can enjoy whiter teeth for years to come.