From dark drinks to the aging process, there are many things that can cause your teeth to change color over time. And while it may be difficult to avoid these staining risks altogether, Waterford Dental Health reassures patients that discoloration can often be removed or reduced with special treatment. If you want to brighten your smile, this cosmetic dentist of Waterford, CT, highlights the top five teeth whitening solutions and when they might be a good option.

5 Teeth Whitening Treatments to Spruce Up Your Smile

1. Toothpaste

Whitening toothpastes contain abrasive compounds that scrub away recent surface stains as you brush. You might use these toothpastes after consuming things that could cause staining—such as coffee or red wine—but not to remove any lingering discoloration.

2. Gum

Sugar-free whitening gum is a multi-purpose dental tool that can refresh your breath, promote saliva production, remove food particles, and prevent staining. It should be noted chewing gum won’t actually brighten your teeth, but it can help provide a temporary defensive layer that can block potential staining agents.

3. Strips  

Over-the-counter whitening strips are designed to cover an entire row of teeth with a peroxide-based gel. These are typically short-term solutions applied for 30 minutes a day over the course of about two weeks. While these formulas can penetrate enamel to remove darker stains, you should only expect to see an improvement in one or two shades.

4. Over-the-Counter Tray Systems

Similar to strips, tray systems use a peroxide formula to remove stains, but they work a little differently.  To use these over-the-counter products, you place bleaching gel in a custom-formed tray that fits over your teeth. In terms of results, the expectations should be close to what you’d experience with whitening strips. However, you might find that these products provider better coverage due to the tight fit of the tray.

5. Professional Bleaching  

When you want to enhance your smile by three shades or more, professional teeth whitening is the best option. In some cases, your dentist may apply a high-concentration bleaching agent to your teeth for about an hour. A special light may be placed over your mouth to activate the whitening compounds in the formula. In other situations, dentists may provide custom-made trays that you take home to apply on your own schedule. Compared to DIY options, both of these treatments offer the strongest, fastest, and longest lasting results.

If you’re ready to explore your options for a brighter smile, Waterford Dental Health offers advanced teeth whitening treatments to patients in the New London County area. In addition to teeth whitening, this team of cosmetic dentists can also help you explore other solutions to improve the look of your smile—such as tooth crowns and dental veneers. You can learn more about these state-of-the-art options, as well as their other general dentistry services, online. To schedule an appointment at this Waterford, CT, dental clinic, call (860) 447-2235.