Bleaching, Whitening Toothpastes, and Home Whitening Kits

When you use a home whitening kit, whitening toothpaste, or other form of teeth whitening that’s sold over-the-counter, you will find certain things work and others don’t.  Beware of some “cheap” remedies sold in malls, online, and other places as they are often short-term whiteners that may have ill effects.

Before undergoing any whitening treatment, you should visit your dentist for a regular cleaning and checkup.  Most teeth whitening methods should not be used by women who are pregnant, anyone with gum disease, and in other situations.  Talk to your dentist about your plans while you’re getting your checkup so you can find out if there is a risk.

Most of types of whitening kit that you purchase from the store (over the counter) are bleach-based.  Probably hydrogen peroxide, which is basically harmless in small quantities.  This is what gives the bleaching its “sting” quality when it touches your gums or lips.  For the most part, however, so long as your gums aren’t over-exposed to the peroxide, no ill effects beyond some sensitivity will result.

These kits work fairly well for most people and many find that this is all they need for teeth whitening.  Expect to get 2-3 shades lighter after about two weeks of treatments.  For most people, this amount of teeth whitening is what they’re after and is good enough.

If you use a whitening kit, however, be aware that you should never use more than one kit in a row and should have at least a like interval (about a week) between treatments.  Read the box label before you use it and follow directions carefully.

Whitening toothpaste options abound and are extremely popular.  They are not, however, very effective.  They are better for maintenance of an existing teeth whitening treatment than they are at whitening on their own.  Great results can be had by using an over the counter whitening kit combined with whitening toothpaste, though.

Good luck with your whitening!