The best tooth whitening option for anyone who wishes to see immediate results is undoubtedly in-office laser teeth whitening. However, for those interested in whitening solutions that are more convenient and cheaper than in-office whitening, many people have had success with a variety of home-based teeth whitening procedures. For less severe cases of tooth discoloration, or in cases where one simply cannot afford the time or the money involved with having in-office cosmetic dental procedures performed, then at-home tooth whitening may be the answer. Learn more about options for
teeth whitening in Minneapolis at the office of Dr. Dennis Simmons.
At-home Professional Tooth Whitening Kits
One product acts as a kind of hybrid between cosmetic dentistry and at-home tooth-whitening kits. For a few hundred dollars, you can purchase an at-home bleaching kit from your dentist, and perform the treatment on yourself in the convenience of your own home, typically over the course of around ten days. The advantages of the dentist-purchased
tooth whitening kit include the increased amount of the acting whitening agent, which is usually peroxide, the ability to have a mouth guard custom fitted to the shape of your teeth, and longer-lasting results.
Over-the-Counter Tooth Whitening Kits
When used according to the instructions, over-the-counter tooth whitening kits can also prove effective in some cases. Further, they are more convenient and cost significantly less than procedures or products from a dental professional. It still may be wise to consult your dentist before trying an at-home tooth-whitening solution, as they may be able to suggest a brand or style that will be the most effective. Many of these products are priced at less than $50, and treatments (which involve placing whitening strips on the teeth more than once a day) often last around two weeks, with results lasting up to six months.
Another type of at-home tooth-whitening option allows you to let the kit do its work at night while you are sleeping. These kits are often less than $35, and some are less than $20. These at-home tooth-whitening solutions often come in a liquid form, which must be painted onto the tooth (allowing for greater access when compared to a whitening strip), for a period of a couple weeks. The results also may last up to six months. In addition to strips and brush-on liquids, there are also mouth trays available. These are less effective than the type sold and offered by the dentist.
Simple Teeth Whitening Solutions
There are two final options for at-home tooth whitening, one of which comes in the form of a chewing gum. The gum does not contain peroxide, instead using another matter altogether to whiten teeth. This method requires several uses of the gum throughout the day, for several minutes each time. Lastly, there is whitening toothpaste, which also does not contain bleach or peroxide, and works with mildly abrasive chemicals to polish teeth, and remove surface stains.