By: Dr. Christopher Lim
Posted on: September 09, 2021
We all want a beautiful and bright white smile that sparkles in photos and charms our friends, loved ones, and strangers alike. To get their teeth as white as possible, a recent survey by Mintel/Greenfield Online showed that 67% of American adults have tried to whiten their teeth in one way or another. The solutions for teeth whitening seem almost endless, but the options can be confusing when you are a consumer trying to figure out which option is best for you and your teeth.
If you want teeth whitening but are not sure where to begin, here is a breakdown of whitening options and how they could work for you. Contact our dentist, Dr. Christopher Lim, at Hillside Dental, in Las Vegas, Nevada, for any questions about which teeth whitening option is best for you.
Teeth whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives to eliminate surface stains, and some have added polishing agents and particular ingredients that are more effective against stains than regular toothpaste. Teeth whitening toothpaste, however, is not traditionally made to whiten your teeth.
When you use teeth whitening strips, there are active ingredients called carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that work to bleach off surface stains and penetrate the tooth enamel and dentin to remove stains from deep within your tooth.
This option will typically give the best results and is safer when compared to over-the-counter teeth whitening toothpaste and whitening strips and generates the best results. Options include laser teeth whitening and whitening trays and bleaching solutions for at-home whitening. These in-office treatments are often shorter so that you can start seeing results immediately.
Dentists typically have professional strength teeth whitening kits and trays formulated for you to do at home. In addition, your dentist will be able to match the shade of your existing teeth so that you can whiten teeth all look the same.
These custom-fitted trays are made to closely fit your teeth so the bleaching agent can reach every part of your tooth. You’ll wear them for about an hour a day for two weeks, depending on your needs. These trays are fast-acting compared to over-the-counter options and effectively get rid of yellow stains caused by tobacco use, food, and drink. And, because they are a custom fit for your teeth, the whitening effects will be more consistent than over-the-counter options.
If you are thinking of whitening your teeth, it is essential to consult your dentist. They can provide the best solution for your mouth. Your dentist will be able to define a treatment that may work best with your specific mouth. For example, if you have sensitive teeth, you will need a unique formula to make them as safe and comfortable as possible.
Contact our dentist today at 702-666-8584 to make an appointment and learn more about teeth whitening options available in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dr. Christopher Lim and the team at Hillside Dental offer professional teeth whitening options and a wide variety of other dental services for patients of all ages. Call us to learn more or to schedule a consultation with our team.