Teeth whitening is a procedure to lighten the color of your teeth and remove stains. You can have it done at a dentist’s office, or do it yourself at home.
Tooth whitening is most often done using peroxide-based bleaching agents. At-home systems contain from 3% to 20% peroxide (carbamide or hydrogen peroxides). In-office systems contain from 15% to 43% peroxide.
Generally, the stronger the solution and the longer you keep it on your teeth, the whiter your teeth become. But the higher the percentage of peroxide in the whitening solution, the shorter it should stay on your teeth. Keeping it on longer will dehydrate teeth and increase tooth sensitivity.
There are pros and cons to each option, but before you try at-home tooth-bleaching kits, talk to your dentist. Not everyone will see good results. Bleaching will not whiten porcelain crowns or tooth-colored composite bondings.
The terms “whitening” and “bleaching” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they don’t always mean the same thing. Teeth whitening can be done with either bleaching or non-bleaching products. Bleaching is the type of whitening that involves using bleach containing peroxide. It cleans both deep and surface stains and can make teeth even whiter than their natural shade.
You have tooth discoloration when your teeth are stained or darkened. It might affect the whole tooth or look like lines or spots on the tooth’s surface. There are two basic types of tooth discoloration:
Teeth whitening done by your dentist can get teeth brighter faster. The bleaching solution is usually much stronger than that in at-home kits. Also, your dentist can use heat, light, or a combination of the two to speed and intensify the whitening process.
The most dramatic results — teeth generally get three to eight shades brighter — usually take several 30- to 60-minute in-office visits. Some dentists use techniques that can be done in a single 2-hour appointment (such as the Zoom system). The cost of in-office teeth whitening varies, but can range from $500 to $1,000.
There are many choices for whitening teeth at home. Some common methods include:
The first step toward whiter teeth is good oral hygiene at home. Brush twice a day with fluoride or baking soda toothpaste, floss at least once a day, and drink fluoridated water.
Some other at-home practices can also help teeth look cleaner and whiter:
Baking soda is slightly abrasive, which helps scrub stains from your teeth. It’s an ingredient in many toothpastes. You can also use it by itself. Just put a little on a wet toothbrush and brush gently. Be sure to rinse well. Don’t do this more than a couple of times a week, as baking soda’s abrasiveness could damage your tooth enamel.
Activated charcoal is another abrasive material that some people use to try to whiten their teeth. You can buy toothpastes and tooth polishes that contain it. However, there’s no strong evidence that it’s effective or safe. The American Dental Association warns that using abrasives on your teeth can wear down enamel, potentially making teeth look more yellow.
In this traditional Indian remedy, you swish a spoonful of sesame or coconut oil around your mouth for 15–20 minutes per day. Proponents say it can whiten teeth and improve overall dental health, but there is little scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
The best whitening option depends on your needs, circumstances, and budget. Talk to your dentist about safe and effective methods. In-office whitening is highly effective, safe, and long-lasting, but it’s more expensive than over-the-counter options and often isn’t covered by insurance. Ask your dentist for a cost estimate before starting.
Other factors to consider include:
Maintain results by brushing and flossing regularly and keeping dental appointments. Avoid acidic, tannin-rich, or deeply colored foods and drinks, including:
Tooth bleaching can make teeth temporarily sensitive or uncomfortable for those with pre-existing sensitivity. Improper use of home kits can also cause burned or temporarily bleached gums. Whitening is most effective for yellow teeth and less effective for brown, gray, or purple teeth.
When done correctly, teeth whitening is generally safe, but risks include:
Additional potential risks include erosion, mineral loss, or pulp damage. To minimize risks:
Teeth whitening can damage teeth if the procedure or product is too harsh, leading to dehydration and loss of essential minerals like calcium.
Teeth whitening lightens teeth and removes stains using ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide. Many safe and effective methods exist, including professional treatments and at-home products. Always seek dentist advice and follow directions carefully.
Yellowed teeth from aging, certain foods, beverages, or poor oral hygiene can be whitened using dental care like teeth whitening, bonding, or crowns. Your dentist can guide the best option for you.
For long-lasting results, experts recommend professional in-office whitening, followed by monthly at-home maintenance. This may not be suitable for everyone.