How To Whiten Teeth At Home
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Whitening teeth at home is extremely convenient. There’s less (if any) visits to the dentist needed, and travel costs to your local clinic are eliminated. Plus, thanks to the myriad of products available online, achieving a brighter smile without leaving home has never been easier.
How to whiten teeth at home
So, how do you whiten teeth at home? There are many options to choose from. Depending on the pre-existing shade of your teeth and if there is any discolouration present, the most effective treatment will differ from patient to patient.
At-home teeth whitening kit
Typically using mouth trays and gel syringes, at-home kits refresh the colour of your smile over a short time period. Yorkshire Dental Suite’s set uses prescription 16% carbamide peroxide, which is 32 x more potent than non-prescription kits found over the counter, to whiten your teeth in as little as 72 hours.
Teeth whitening strips & teeth whitening pens
These products are extremely popular, thanks to their fast-acting formulations, affordability and easy application process. While they may provide instant results, the longevity of such products are questionable, as well as their effectiveness on patients with very discoloured teeth.
Teeth whitening toothpaste
Another way to whiten your teeth at home is with a teeth whitening toothpaste. This type of product usually features an abrasive ingredient (or mild bleaching agent) to polish the teeth while you brush. It may lift slight surface stains or yellowness on its own, but is most effective when paired with another teeth whitening treatment.
Natural teeth whitening remedies
Many patients use the ingredients found in their kitchen cupboards when undergoing teeth whitening at home. Banana peels, turmeric, baking soda - all are believed to have a brightening effect on your smile. Please note that such ingredients will not offer a dramatic whitening result.
Home teeth whitening: Is it safe?
Teeth whitening is generally be considered to be safe, even when carried out at home. However, as you do not have the assistance of a dental professional, there is a number of risks to be aware of.
Risk | Cause | How to mitigate |
|---|---|---|
Burns to gums | Ill-fitting mouth trays, incorrect application technique, using too much whitening gel. | Do not allow the gel to spill onto gums. If this happens, wipe away the gel with a cotton bud. |
Enamel erosion | Misusing or overusing your chosen teeth whitening treatment. | Closely follow the product instructions. Avoid overly abrasive ingredients like chlorine dioxide. |
Tooth sensitivity | Leaving the whitening gel on for too long, incorrect application technique, using too much whitening gel, abrasive ingredients. | Use a sensitive toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush. Be mindful of very hot or cold food and drinks. |
White spots | Dehydration, enamel demineralisation, uneven whitening. | Drink plenty of water. Use a remineralising toothpaste or gel to help restore lost minerals and strengthen the enamel. |
Allergic reaction | Individual’s reaction to certain product ingredients. | Check the ingredients before using your chosen product. Alert your dentist or doctor immediately if you have a reaction. |
DIY teeth whitening kits come with extra risks as they lack proper testing. For example, some sets use overly abrasive pastes and gels in order to provide quick results. Other kits use generic whitening trays that are easily overfilled, causing the whitening gel to spill onto the gums. This can lead to soreness and blistering. If the kit is not clinically researched or prescribed by dentists, the results are unlikely to be significant and, instead of a white smile, you may experience enamel damage and pain instead. To ensure your safety, Yorkshire Dental Suite recommends using dentist-led products that are backed with great reviews and clinical analysis. Conducting your own research will also help to make sure that you are picking the right formula for you.
Can yellow teeth go white again?
Yes. Alongside certain dental treatments and products, there are changes you can make in your everyday lifestyle that will help you to reclaim and maintain a white, uniform smile. These changes include:
- Maintain a great oral hygiene routine: Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste and high-quality toothbrush.
- Consider your diet: Foods like tomato-based sauces, red wine and coffee will stain your teeth, while sugary, acidic and starchy foods weaken the enamel.
- Do not skip the dentist: Dental professionals help to make sure your oral health is in good condition. Try to attend two routine check-ups per year.
- Do not skip the hygienist: Certain hygienist treatments (like Guided Biofilm Therapy) can minimise the appearance of stains and slight discolouration.
- Quit smoking and vaping: These habits accelerate discolouration considerably, while also posing several risks to your overall health.
Conclusion: At-home teeth whitening is a great option for patients wanting quick, convenient results. It may take a little trial and error to find the best treatment, as well as some dedication, but a smile transformation is completely possible. If you wish to have the assistance of a dental professional, book a consultation with Yorkshire Dental Suite. From dental bonding to industry-leading kits, our range of treatments provide a life-changing confidence boost.