The question people ask their dentist the most is how to get a better smile. If you are already brushing twice a day for at least two minutes, visiting your dentist twice a year, and want to improve your smile, whitening is the way to go! It is important to know what ingredients are a must and which are a major no! With lots of products such as teeth whitening strips, mouthwashes, and whitening floss, but which is best for you? Here are some important things to remember when looking for the right teeth whitening products.
1. Active Ingredients
Hydrogen peroxide is the most common ingredient in teeth whiteners. If you plan to use an over-the-counter product, look for around 10% hydrogen peroxide in the product. If you plan to have your teeth professionally whitened, their products will have around 40-50% hydrogen peroxide. The FDA does not regulate whitening products, so it is important that any product you choose has been approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Too strong of a product can lead to teeth sensitivity and gum inflammation.
2. Ingredients to Avoid
When searching for the right teeth whitening for you, you want to make sure you select a product that is effective, but also safe. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and diethanolamine (DEA) are common ingredients found in teeth whiteners to avoid. It can cause nausea and gum irritation. Silica and sodium hydroxide can cause gum sensitivity and erosion of tooth enamel. Lastly, avoid products with ammonium hydroxide in teeth whiteners. It can cause saliva to dissolve which can leave to dry mouth, bad breath, and gingivitis.
3. Clinically Proven Products
Before deciding on any teeth whitening product, be sure that they are dentist recommended. Products that have been clinically proven to work are not only typically safer, they are also proven to work! This will save you time and money! It is also important that you select a product that is approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
4. Whiteners Vary in Strength
You want to find a teeth whitener that fits the needs of your overall teeth health. If you already have sensitive teeth, be sure to select a whitener that is less abrasive and made for sensitive teeth. Also, if you suffer from gum disease, you should not use teeth whiteners!
5. Price
Quality is vital to teeth whiteners. If the product is cheap, you can expect it to either not be safe or not be an en effective teeth whitener. With so many whiteners available, you can find the right product that fits your budget! If you want long-lasting quality, teeth whitening that is safe for your teeth, it is important that you find the right choice for you!
6. Easy to Use
If you plan to use an at-home product, you want to make sure that it is easy to use at home and not too time-consuming.
7. Speed
If you are whitening your teeth for an even and want a product that is effective and fast, go with professional whitening or a product with a higher hydrogen peroxide percentage. Generally, if the teeth whitener has a lower percentage of hydrogen peroxide, it will take multiple applications to successfully whiten your teeth.
8. Teeth Sensitivity
If you have sensitive teeth, it can be a challenge to whiten your teeth. Generally, if the product has a lower percentage of a bleaching agent, it will be safe for sensitive teeth. This means it may take more applications to successfully whiten your teeth.
9. Choose the Right Product for You
There are so many teeth whitening products so it is important that your select the best one that fits the needs of not only your teeth but also your gums. Asking your dentist which product is right for you is the best way to ensure you selected the right product!
10. Change Your Lifestyle to Make your White Smile Last!
In order to make your white smile last, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. One of the biggest habits that can impact your smile is smoking. Coffee, wine, and tea are also known to stain your teeth. Also, be careful to avoid foods that are highly acidic. Citrus fruits, sodas, and sugary food can weaken your enamel and darken your teeth as well.
With so many options for teeth whitening, be sure to select the right one for the health and look of your smile!