Many people see a bright, white smile as a sign of confidence, good hygiene, and overall health. Some factors that could cause tooth discoloration include trauma, poor dental hygiene, and medications. Many people desire to have whiter teeth because of their aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Discolored teeth can affect the outlook of your smile and lower your self-esteem. Fortunately, there are available remedies that could give you the desired outlook. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; the best option depends on the cause of the discoloration. Therefore, choosing a whitening procedure will depend on your budget, oral health, and personal preferences. You can take control of your dental appearance by learning about the whitening and maintenance tips available.

You can also try at-home remedies that may help whiten your teeth. The most effective and lasting tooth whitening solutions require an in-office treatment. Therefore, you will need to consult an experienced cosmetic dentist. The following are some ways through which you can make your teeth whiter:

Brush and Floss Daily

Brushing and flossing your teeth is a fundamental part of good oral hygiene and is the most critical part of having whiter teeth. Brushing helps eliminate plaque, food particles, and surface stains. Flossing, on the other hand, does clean between teeth that your brush cannot access.

You should also use fluoride toothpaste and brush at least twice daily to prevent your teeth from staining. The toothbrush should always be soft-bristled to avoid injuries to the gums or other soft oral tissues. Also, you should brush your tongue to prevent bacteria and bad breath buildup. The clean surface of the tooth reflects the light better and gives the tooth a whiter appearance.

Use Whitening Toothpaste

Another simple way to whiten teeth is by using whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives. The toothpaste scrubs away surface stains without damaging enamel. Some types also include chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

When used once or twice daily, whitening toothpaste may show results in a few weeks. Whitening toothpaste does not bleach your teeth. However, it makes them look cleaner and brighter. You can ask your dentist to recommend the right toothpaste during regular dental visits.

Use Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are among the most popular and easiest methods for white teeth at home. The strips are thin and covered in a whitening gel. Most strips use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the whitening agent. These strips are applied to your teeth and remain in place for 30 minutes.

Other brands might take less or more time. The strips bleach the stains off the surface of your teeth. You will see a difference in the color of your tooth enamel after several days of using the whitening strips. These strips are available online and at local drugstores, which makes them convenient for many people.

However, they are not perfect. Some people experience tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. It is also hard to cover back teeth with strips. If you have crooked teeth, the gel may not reach all surfaces. Whitening strips are a good starting point in your journey to make your teeth whiter. They are affordable and can improve your smile with consistent use.

Use Whitening Trays

Another alternative for teeth whitening at home is whitening trays. These trays contain a whitening gel made from hydrogen peroxide. You place the trays over your teeth for several hours each day. There are two types of whitening trays:

  • Over-the-counter. Store-bought trays are pre-made and may not fit perfectly on your teeth.
  • Custom-fit trays. These trays are made by your dentist and molded onto your teeth. This makes them more comfortable than the store-bought ones.

The gel inside the tray breaks down stains on the teeth. You must wear the trays for 30 minutes to a few hours daily. Some people wear them overnight. Most treatments last one to two weeks. Trays can whiten your teeth several shades when used correctly. They are more potent than whitening toothpaste or strips.

Whitening trays are a great middle-ground option. They are more effective than basic products but less expensive than in-office treatments. However, they can carry the following risks:

  • Gum irritation. The gel can irritate your gums if it leaks out of the tray.

  • Tooth sensitivity. You might experience some sensitivity after using the whitening trays. You can avoid the complications by following the instructions correctly.

Undergo In-Office Whitening

In-office whitening is among the quickest and most effective means to obtain whiter teeth. Results can be seen dramatically after only one visit. Your dentist places a high-concentration bleaching gel directly onto your teeth in the office. This gel is highly concentrated with hydrogen peroxide. Your dentist may also try expediting this process using a specific light or laser.

The treatment takes about 60 to 90 minutes. The dentist may use a dental dam to protect your gums and lips during the procedure. Once the session ends, you will notice that your teeth are lighter shades. The results from in-office whitening can last for months. It depends on your diet and how well you care for your teeth afterward.

Your dentist can recommend that you avoid coffee, wine, and tobacco after the procedure. One downside of office teeth whitening is the cost. In-office treatments are more expensive than at-home kits. Additionally, you may feel temporary tooth sensitivity, which should resolve quickly. If you want quick, noticeable results, in-office whitening is ideal.

Apply Composite Bonding

Bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can make teeth appear whiter by covering stains with tooth-colored material. It is used when stains do not respond to traditional whitening. During the bonding process, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin to your teeth. They then shape and smooth the resin to match the natural appearance of your teeth.

The dentist then uses a special light to harden the resin and bond it to the tooth surface. The tooth bonding procedure takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. It is painless and does not need anesthesia when filling the cavity. Dental bonding can cover deep stains, chips, or gaps, making your teeth look whiter. It is also helpful if you have worn or uneven edges. The result is a natural-looking, brighter, and whiter smile.

Dental bonding costs less than veneers. However, it costs more than simple whitening treatments. The resin is not as strong as enamel. Therefore, it can chip or stain over time. Bonding can last several years with proper care. After a bonding procedure, you should avoid biting complex objects and staining foods to make them last longer. Bonding is an excellent option if you want to fix the color and shape of your teeth in one step.

Use Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of your teeth. They are made of porcelain or composite resin. Veneers do not bleach your natural teeth. Instead, they cover the enamel, making your teeth look whiter and shinier. Veneers are ideal if teeth have deep stains that whitening cannot fix.

However, they may not work well for people with chipped, cracked, or uneven teeth. Veneers can give you a perfect, bright smile when matched correctly. The process of applying veneers takes two dental visits. On the first visit, your dentist prepares your teeth and takes a mold. You may receive temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being made. On the second visit, the permanent veneers are bonded. Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant and last longer than resin ones. They can last 10–15 years with good care.

However, veneers are expensive. A dentist will remove some of your tooth enamel to fit the veneers. For this reason, they are permanent. Many people choose veneers for their natural appearance and long-lasting results despite the cost. They are a great solution if you are looking for a total smile makeover.

Use Whitening Pens

Whitening pens are made of small tubes that contain a whitening gel. You apply it directly to your teeth using a brush tip to whiten them. The gel contains a mild peroxide formula. You twist the pen, apply the gel to your teeth, and wait for it to dry. Most people leave it on for 15–30 minutes before eating or drinking. Whitening pens are not meant for deep whitening.

They work best for quick touch-ups or maintaining results from other treatments. You can use them after coffee or wine to help prevent stains. The treatment is less likely to cause sensitivity since you apply the gel lightly. However, it can wear off easily since your saliva may wash it away.

These pens are portable, affordable, and easy to use. You can carry one in your purse, pocket, or car for quick use anytime. Whitening pens do not dramatically change your tooth color. They work best alongside other whitening methods or as a quick touch-up before a special event.

Undergo Laser Whitening

Laser whitening is an advanced option to make your teeth whiter. A dentist performs the procedure using a strong whitening gel. To whiten the teeth, your dentist will apply a bleaching gel to your teeth, then use a laser or LED light to activate the gel. The light speeds up the process, which makes the gel more effective.

The procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Most people see immediate results after a single session of laser whitening. Your teeth can become several shades lighter. Laser whitening is ideal if you want fast and noticeable results. It is perfect before weddings, interviews, or other important events. The treatment is safe and done under professional supervision.

Some people may experience mild sensitivity after the procedure. Laser whitening is more expensive than most other whitening methods.

Factors to Consider Before Whitening Your Teeth

Many people desire to have whiter teeth for the bright appearance of their smile. Teeth whitening can help, but procedures are unsuitable for everyone. Before starting your teeth whitening journey and choosing a specific method, you must consider the following factors:

  • Tooth sensitivity. Teeth whitening can worsen sensitivity. Some people feel sharp pain or discomfort during or after the treatment. You should talk to your dentist to see if it is safe.

  • Existing dental work. Whitening products do not work on crowns, fillings, or veneers. This can leave uneven color in your smile. If you have dental work, you should ask your dentist to recommend the best options for making your teeth whiter.

  • Cause of Stains. Tooth stains are a common reason people seek whitening treatments. However, not all stains respond to whitening. Yellow stains usually lighten well, but gray or brown stains may not. Stains from medication or injury may need options, like bonding or veneers.

  • Oral health condition. Before whitening your teeth, you must consider your oral health. You should not whiten if you have gum disease, cavities, or exposed roots. These problems can become worse with whitening. It is best to get a dental checkup before starting any whitening treatment. Your dentist will assess the condition and determine the best option for you.

  • Expected results. Teeth whitening can improve your smile. However, you should not expect perfection. The results of a whitening procedure vary depending on the method used. You should remain realistic with your expectations and follow your dentist’s advice.

Find a Reliable Dentist Near Me

A whiter smile may be possible for many people who take the right steps. You have various choices to whiten your teeth. But you can select the right one for your budget, goals, and lifestyle. There are options ranging from mild home treatments to commercial whitening toothpaste and strips. Alternatively, you may choose office whitening for a quick and dramatic effect.

You can also take home kits from your dentist or use over-the-counter remedies. Long-lasting results for teeth whitening will depend on how well you care for your teeth. Some factors that play a part in keeping your teeth white and smiling brighter include brushing, flossing, regular dental visits, and smart eating habits.

If you are unsure where to start making your teeth whiter, consult a cosmetic dentist. At Valencia Advanced Dentistry at Copperhill Smiles, we offer expert dental services for our clients. Call us today at 661-775-7717 to schedule your appointment.