The most common thing that patients ask about at dental visits is teeth whitening. Foods and drinks that people consume, along with habits like tobacco use, cause teeth to become yellowed and stained. Noticeably discolored teeth can be embarrassing and cause you to look older than you really are. Teeth whitening methods can improve both your appearance and your self-esteem.

Strips and gels
Drugstores carry many choices of whitening strips and gels to spruce up your smile. These products contain varying levels of hydrogen peroxide. Adhesive strips adhere directly to the fronts of your teeth to be worn a certain period of time while the peroxide does its job. Gels are applied to your teeth with a brush. Instructions for these whitening methods should be followed closely, and results are usually not visible until after several days or weeks of consistent use.

Toothpaste
Whitening toothpastes contain ingredients to remove surface stains. Safe ingredients include hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, but avoid toothpastes containing bleach. This whitening method lightens teeth about one shade with consistent use.

Trays
When other at-home methods aren’t sufficient, whitening trays provide a stronger alternative. Usually purchased through your dentist, you will fill a tray with a special whitening solution and wear the tray for a few hours or overnight. This method takes about a month to complete, but may be uncomfortable for those with highly sensitive teeth or gums.

Professional whitening
Whitening methods performed at your dentist’s office are the most effective and long-lasting choice. Teeth that are severely discolored may require the stronger bleaching ingredients used professionally, and these methods are enhanced by using light or heat as part of the process. Results are visible after the hour-long treatment is complete, and you can expect your teeth to whiten by several shades.

Teeth whitening dentist in Toronto.