As you may already know, there are many ways you can successfully whiten your smile, and some of those ways involve the use of over-the-counter whitening products at home! If you’re interested in whitening your smile with an at-home treatment, our Kaitilin Riley DDS team has some helpful information for you. Here are some details on over-the-counter whitening toothpaste, strips, gel, and mouthwash:
Whitening toothpaste is a product that does not generally contain bleach, but it usually contains carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which are whitening agents that help lighten the color deep in the tooth. Generally, the whitening toothpaste can lighten your smile by about one shade and can help remove surface stains.
Whitening strips are thin strips that are virtually invisible. They are coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel and they fit right over your smile. Generally, you will need to wear a strip twice a day for 30 minutes each time. Within about 14 days or so, you should start seeing results.
Whitening gel is a clear product that is applied to the front surfaces of your teeth with a small brush. The gel contains peroxide and it should provide results in just a few days. Please read the gel instructions carefully because too much gel can harm your smile.
Whitening mouthwash can freshen your breath and prevent plaque growth all while brightening your smile. This product has whitening ingredients, like hydrogen peroxide, to help you reach the white smile results you are looking for. Typically, your teeth should appear whiter within about 12 weeks of using the rinse.
If you have additional questions or if you would like to know which product is best for your smile, please feel free to call 805-238-3880 today and schedule an appointment with your dentist. Dr. Kaitilin Riley will be more than happy to meet with you, examine your chompers, and give you the advice you need to succeed!
