5 Ways To Get A Whiter, Brighter Smile
May 5th, 2008 | by Jeniffer |
This is a brief overview of five ways to whiten your teeth.
Always check with a qualified dental professional before attempting to whiten your teeth.
Some people report sensitivity in their gums after whitening procedures.
1) Laser treatment
This is a treatment where they coat your teeth with a whitening gel, then apply a special laser light to it.
The process lasts about 1-1 1/2 hours, and you need only do it once.
However, it may cost anywhere from $400 to upwards of several thousand dollars, so it is the most expensive.
2) At Home Gel From The Dentist
My husband did this, and he got some good results.
You get the same gel as is used in #1 above, to do a treatment yourself at home.
First, a mold is made of your teeth, which you later get to take home, fill with the gel, place in your mouth for a specified amount of time, then remove.
At a cost of about $120, it’s cheaper than the first method, gives you good results, but is more time consuming.
It may cause you to produce a lot of saliva while doing the treatment, which will cause you to drool.
3) Whitening Strips
I have tried these, and my teeth are fairly white.
You buy a package of strips which are individually wrapped. Each strip is coated with whitening gel on one side. There are strips for both bottom and top teeth.
Simply peel off the protective cover from the side with the gel on it, apply to your teeth, carry on with whatever you would normally be doing for about a half hour, and within 7-14 days, you should have whiter teeth.
Even though this is a product which is available over the counter, and is a treatment which you do yourself, check with your dentist before undergoing the treatment.
When I did these, I would do a 1/2 hour cardio workout while waiting.
4) Whitening Rinses
I use a whitening pre rinse on my teeth.
You use it before brushing.
It’s like a mouthwash, swish it around in your mouth, coating the teeth.
Spit.
Then brush your teeth, rinse thoroughly, and you’re good to go.
5) Whitening Toothpastes
These are great for helping to ward off coffee or tea stains.
Be certain you get one with fluoride.
Of course, you can always use good old fashioned baking soda for a whitening affect. Or go for a toothpaste which contains it.
