A bright smile conveys an image of youth, health, and beauty. If you want your teeth to be a bit whiter, then you might be interested in cosmetic teeth bleaching. The problem, however, is that there are hundreds of DIY teeth whitening options out there and they aren’t all effective.
Problems with DIY Teeth Whitening
There are countless varieties of whitening toothpaste, mouth rinses, strips, and gels available over-the-counter at stores and online. Despite the variety, it’s almost impossible to find an OTC product that works since most of them deliver only superficial results.
Whitening toothpaste, for example, even though it may contain some peroxide in it, isn’t on the teeth long enough to penetrate your enamel and actually whiten the tooth structure. It will only remove surface stains. Whitening strips will actually whiten your teeth, but the peroxide in them is necessarily mild. Some rinse products can even damage the surface of your teeth.
Many people swear by so-called “natural” remedies to whiten teeth using things like baking soda, activated charcoal, or fresh lemons. But there are two problems with these DIY teeth bleaching methods. One is that they can’t alter pigmentation deep inside the tooth. Baking soda and charcoal will only remove surface stains. Another is that there is a potential for harm to the teeth. Acidic substances such as lemon and vinegar will etch tooth enamel which can make them whiter temporarily but makes them attract stain and turn darker later.
The Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth
To whiten your teeth thoroughly, quickly, and safely, consult a cosmetic dentist like Dr. Marion who has experience in teeth whitening. He will evaluate your tooth color and dental health and explain how to get the bright results you want.
Dr. Marion prescribes custom-fitted whitening trays with a professional-grade bleaching gel. 
The bleaching gel contains a potent concentration of peroxide that dissolves stains and even lightens natural tooth pigment via oxidation. Before fitting you out with a bleaching tray, Dr. Marion will first recommend a full dental exam and dental cleaning. Not only does he want to make sure that bleaching is an appropriate treatment for you, but he wants to identify any leaky fillings, cavities, or exposed dentin that could result in a hypersensitivity reaction to the strong bleaching gel.
Here are just some of the advantages of teeth whitening with a professional like Dr. Marion:
- Professional supervision ensures your bleaching treatment is successful and safe.
- You’ll have the convenience of whitening your teeth at your preferred pace and at times that suit your schedule.
- You’ll receive instructions and practice in the dental office to guarantee that you use your bleaching tray correctly.
- Having a perfectly-fitted custom tray allows for even gel distribution without gum irritation.
- You can decide how white you want your teeth. The longer you use the trays, the whiter they will get.
If Dr. Marion determines that professional teeth bleaching is right for you and you use the take-home tray system as directed, then you can expect your teeth to permanently lighten. You may need the occasional touch-up, however, to eliminate new stains.
Some teeth suffer from severe pigmentation that is very stubborn and difficult to whiten, even with professional bleaching treatment. If you have any teeth like this, Dr. Marion will let you know the results you can expect and what other options you have.
Request a visit with Dr. Marion for a dental exam where you’ll find out if teeth whitening is right for you.