Teeth Whitening Basics

<a href="http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=989">Image: healingdream / FreeDigitalPhotos.net</a>

A healthy, white smile is easier and less expensive to achieve than you might expect. Daily habits combined with the whitening agent of your choice can keep your teeth looking strong and bright.

Daily Dental Habits

Consistent good dental habits go a long way toward maintaining whiter teeth. Snacks and meals high in sugar and carbohydrates encourage bacteria that produce acid that harm our teeth. Avoid these kinds of foods, opting instead for fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meat.

Follow each meal if possible with a thorough brushing, holding your toothbrush at a forty-five degree angle to clean the gumline. Brushing your teeth after breakfast and dinner may be the most convenient – if brushing after lunch isn’t possible, rinse well with water. Floss at least once a day to clean out food particles from between teeth.

Teeth Whitening at Home

If your teeth have lost their luster, it may be time to whiten them. Teeth whitening is basically applying a bleaching agent

Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

to the surfaces of your teeth. The best equation for whiter teeth is consistent use over a long period of time to produce the results you want.

If you want to spend less than $100, there are many teeth whitening agents available in retail stores. These options range from strips that adhere to your teeth as well as non-customized mouth trays filled with a bleaching agent. These teeth whiteniners are safe to use at home and don’t require a dentist’s supervision. They also require more consistent use and a longer amount of time to work. To get the most from these less expensive options, follow the directions carefully.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening done by your dental professional is the fastest, easiest and most convenient way to whiten your teeth. Using professional equipment, your dentist can help whiten your teeth up to ten shades in about an hour. While more expensive, this is the most effective way to whiten teeth.

A less expensive option involves customized mouth trays and a dentist’s supervision. In a little over a week, your teeth could be up to ten shades whiter using these materials provided by your dentist. Many dental professionals offer these teeth-whitening kits for free for new patients, which may be worth your time and effort.

No matter which option you choose, the reward will be a smile that’s healthy, white and bright!