In recent years, an increasing number of teeth whitening products and services have made their debut in the world of cosmetic dentistry. This isn’t terribly surprising, since whiter teeth are not only an aesthetic feature that many aspire to have, but they also quite often indicate that one’s oral health is in good condition. Whether you’re seeking a teeth whitening system to make you more confident in your smile or you’re hoping to project a picture-perfect example of dental health, there are a number of methods to consider before any “lightening up” can begin.

In this article, we’ll review some of the most common and effective methods of teeth whitening so you can weigh the choices before making any major decisions. To explore your options for high-quality professional whitening services, contact Texarkana Dentist today!

Whitening Toothpaste

In any grocery or drugstore setting, you’re bound to find half an aisle full of toothpaste varieties, many of which claim to have effective whitening properties. With prices ranging from reasonable to upwards of $20 or $30, however, it’s a bit unclear what differentiates one whitening toothpaste from the next. 

In general, the difference between whitening toothpastes — which may not be as effective as the branding suggests — boils down to their primary active ingredient. Some whitening toothpastes contain abrasives, which are small granules derived from minerals including chalk and silica. The other most common active ingredient is usually peroxide or a similar chemical used to dissolve and remove stains. Those with sensitive teeth or gum tissue should speak with their dentist before trying a whitening toothpaste, as many may worsen symptoms of sensitivity that can only be corrected by discontinuing use of the product. 

If you choose to try a whitening toothpaste, you should only consider products that have been approved by accredited organizations like the American Dental Association. Furthermore, consumer trials and reviews have shown that most whitening toothpaste takes two to six weeks to produce noticeable signs of lightening. 

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips can be purchased over-the-counter and applied at home. Results may be apparent within a few days and, given proper dental care and maintenance, may last up to four months.

Whitening strips work on the teeth thanks to the peroxide-based gel they contain. Like baking soda, peroxide is effective at removing stains, but the use of whitening strips should never replace regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Be sure to follow instructions carefully if you decide to use gel strips for teeth whitening.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Cosmetic and general dentists alike often offer services in professional teeth whitening, but these procedures can vary on an office-to-office basis, so be sure to speak with your dentist about the methods they use. 

Texarkana Dentist is a trusted provider of teeth whitening, and we pride ourselves on the effectiveness and client satisfaction of our Zoom Whitening system. With the use of fast and safe light technology, smiles become instantly and recognizably whiter in a matter of minutes, and you can expect them to stay that way for months. Furthermore, Zoom whitening does not use any harmful or abrasive chemicals, making it a great option for those with sensitive teeth and gums. Lastly, it’s much faster than both whitening toothpaste and whitening strips, with just a single brief session producing satisfactory, maintenance-free results.

At Texarkana Dentist, we know that there are many ways to get whiter teeth, which is why we strive to inform all clients about their options regarding this type of dental enhancement. In general, those who come to our Texarkana dental clinic agree that our professional Zoom Whitening is the best route to take, but if you’re not yet sure, we encourage you to reach out to our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.