Statistics show that about 37 million Americans used tooth whiteners in 2020. Having a bright, white smile can boost your self-confidence and enhance your appearance. This will not only help you make a great first impression but also motivate you to take the best care of your smile. A warm, healthy smile will in turn help you become successful in your personal and professional lives. Learning as much as possible about teeth whitening will enable you to make informed decisions and achieve the best outcomes. So what exactly do you need to know about teeth whitening? 

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS WHEN IT COMES TO TEETH WHITENING?

If you are keen on making your pearly whites shine bright, there are several options you can consider. To make smart choices, be sure to consult your dentist for recommendations and expert advice regarding the process. Here are a few options. 

1. ACTIVATED CHARCOAL PRODUCTS

Activated charcoal is a finely-milled black powder made from natural substances like coconut shells, coal, olive pits and bone char. The powder is said to be activated because it is oxidized under high heat, something that makes it more porous and very adsorbent. This process also involves the removal of any materials that could be harmful. The product is then used as a supplement to brushing using regular toothpaste. Activated charcoal helps to eliminate tooth stains and remove toxins to leave you with cleaner, whiter teeth. 

Because this grainy black substance is not absorbed by the body, it is considered safe for the mouth. However, the abrasiveness of charcoal can cause harm by wearing down tooth enamel. This is why activated charcoal products should be used in moderation. 

2. OIL PULLING

This is an oral health routine that involves using oils like mouthwash. Typically, the oil is swished around the mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. Oftentimes, coconut oil is used owing to its pleasant taste and its effectiveness in killing harmful bacteria. However, other oils that can be used include sesame and sunflower oils.

The bacteria in your mouth can form plaque. When dental plaque accumulates, it will lead to a host of dental issues including causing your teeth to look yellow. Oil pulling helps to clean discolored teeth by removing and dissolving bacteria in the liquid oil.  

3. OTC BLEACHING GELS AND STRIPS

Over-the-counter bleaching products can be bought from a pharmacy. The products are usually available in two formats: whitening strips and whitening trays and gels. OTC bleaching gels and strips contain hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, bleaching agents that lighten teeth. How long it takes to notice changes will depend on the strength of the peroxide in the products. 

Over-the-counter methods are generally inexpensive, accessible and easy to use. Although anyone can use the products, you may want to talk to your dentist first if you have very dark stains, dental restorations, sensitive teeth or lots of fillings or crowns. 

4. PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING

If you have tried the options above without much success, you should consider professional teeth whitening. This bleaching procedure is done in a dental office. In-office teeth whitening treatments are ideal for removing stains that have accumulated from colored foods, sauces, dark soda, red wine, tea, coffee and fruit juices. They can also remove stains caused by cigarette smoke and prescription drugs.  

Tried and true dentist-led methods produce excellent results. In addition, in-office teeth whitening can be done quickly and is comparatively safe. This is because the treatments use formulas made by qualified and experienced experts. However, this method of teeth whitening is the most expensive option.  

Some factors to consider when choosing the right teeth whitening method include your budget, dental health, lifestyle and temperament. Regardless of the teeth whitening option you choose, it is important to ensure that the procedure is supervised by a dentist. 

SNAP-ON VENEERS AS AN ALTERNATIVE

When looking to brighten your pearly whites, consider asking your dentist about Snap-on veneers as an alternative to the options above. Snap-on veneers are custom-made, removable dental appliances made from resin. The cosmetic devices which fit over your teeth are designed to feel natural and give your teeth a realistic but improved appearance. 

Below are some benefits of snap-on veneers. 

1. NO HARMFUL CHEMICALS THAT DAMAGE ENAMEL

Unlike other teeth whitening treatments, snap-on veneers do not contain harmful chemicals that damage tooth enamel. Some bleaching products can cause irritation to gums, tooth sensitivity, damage to nerves and mouth infections. This could adversely affect your overall oral health further down the road. 

When you choose snap-on veneers, you will not have to worry about the risk of reducing the hardness of your dental enamel. In addition to achieving a whiter, more confident smile, you will have protected your teeth as well. This makes the devices a safe and effective option for people with stained or discolored teeth.

2. WHITEN TEETH INSTANTLY

When your teeth are discolored, you will want a solution that delivers satisfactory results quickly. Snap-on veneers whiten your teeth instantly to give you a new, beautiful smile. This means that you will not have to monitor the progress of your treatment over a period of time.

The on-the-spot results will be accompanied by an instant boost in self-confidence, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a whiter smile immediately. Once you wear the veneers over your natural teeth, you will be comfortable showing your teeth off and smiling more. Lastly, your smile will look natural and comfortable. 

3. NO DENTIST VISITS 

With snap-on veneers, you do not have to go to the dentist. The process of getting the dental devices is quite simple and does not involve an invasive procedure. This means that you will avoid painful shots and treatments. Also, you will not be required to see your dentist from time to time for teeth whitening touch ups. 

Choosing snap-on veneers will offer you great convenience. This option will also save you time and money that would have otherwise been spent making trips to a dentist. 

For satisfactory results, you should choose the right teeth whitening option. At TruSmile Veneers, we use the latest 3D technology to offer affordable solutions and help you achieve a better smile. Shop our veneers and find out for yourself why TruSmile Veneers is the choice for realistic fake teeth. Find out if you're a candidate today!