Finding The
Best Teeth Whitening Products

When it comes to white teeth, Americans rank high among those who will try almost anything to achieve the perfect smile. This includes both over the counter and in-office dental procedures.

A study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, found that a smile is one of the most desirable qualities for most Americans.

It adds to attractiveness, confidence and saleability.

The list included straightness of teeth, a sparkling smile, and whiteness and color of teeth.

The desire to possess white teeth is inextricably linked to a "Hollywood Smile." Whether we want to remove stains from smoking or hide wine and various food and drink stains, we turn to various methods of teeth whitening.

It is all entangled in the mystique behind the perception of the ideal smile. Yet, no matter how we decide to achieve it, the most popular methods involve a common technique – bleaching

What Is Bleaching?

Bleaching or whitening is one of the most common types of dental treatments.

Whether over-the-counter (OTC) or in a dental office, the material utilized is similar if not identical.

The process involves the application of a peroxide-based material. This is to whiten the teeth.

The active ingredients tend to be hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. What varies is the strength.

In dental procedures done in office or prepared by a dentist for in-home treatments, the concentration of the active substance can be as high as 35%.

Different Types Of Tooth Whitening Products

The market place offers several different types of OTC teeth whitening products. These include:

• Whitening Strips – These are fine invisible strips containing active bleaching ingredients. Wear them a few hours a day for several weeks for the best result. Examples include Colgate Whitestrips and Crest Whitestrips.
• Tooth Whitening Gel – This is a product becoming increasingly popular. Although originally an in-office procedure, teeth whitening gel is coming home. It possible to purchase teeth with small trays or mouthpieces. Some companies request you send them the dimensions of your teeth. In return, they will send you a fitted mouthpiece.
• Teeth Whitening Kits – These are not exactly a separate category but require clarification. These products provide teeth whitening gel with a tray or mouthpiece. This product may be OTC or be provided by a dentist for in-home use.

Whatever method you decide to use, make sure you follow the guidelines correctly. This makes sure the products are safe and effective.

A Word About Dentists

While OTC products abound, research by D. Thosre and S. Mulay printed in a 2009 edition of the J Conservative Dentistry indicates, "dentist-supervised treatments remain the recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth."

In the end, it is a personal choice. While cost may enter the matter, it is up to each of us to decide whether a professional dentist is best.

The Search Continues

We all want to have a pleasant smile. Sometimes our eating and drinking habits interfere with achieving this goal. Stained teeth from smoking may prevent us having that bright, white smile. Fortunately, we can purchase OTC teeth whitening products to reach our goal. While dental procedures are often favored, OTC products such as whitening strips or teeth whitening kits offer us an alternative.

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