Everyone loves a bright white smile and there are several ways to achieve this. Some people are satisfied with the appearance of their teeth after brushing and regular visits to the dentist to remove surface stains. However, there is a difference in results achieved between teeth cleaning and teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is a common and popular process used to lighten teeth. It is sometimes referred to as bleaching.

Natural tooth structure will whiten very nicely with specially formulated peroxide based whitening products, but restorations (i.e. fillings, crowns and veneers) will not whiten. If you have restorations or if you are not sure, ask your dentist before you start whitening. There are several ways to whiten your teeth, it is important to check with your dentist to see which method is best for you. Here are the things you need to know about the different whitening methods.

Whitening Toothpastes and Rinses
These products are highly promoted today but most will cause damage to your teeth due to the abrasive material added to the toothpaste. They will remove stain but they also remove enamel from the teeth. I would advise against these products as they will cause irreversible damage. As for whitening rinses, they contain peroxide. The concentration of peroxide in these rinses and the contact time with your teeth is insufficient to whiten teeth, save your money and use it for something that works.

Over the Counter Whitening
There are several "over the counter" whitening products available in stores and on the internet, like whitening strips. These products have a low concentration of whitening gel and usually do not contain desensitizers or fluoride. They are marginally effective for low levels of stain and for people whose teeth are not sensitive before or during whitening. Internet products have no controls and some may be harmful or not work at all, I would advise avoiding internet whitening products.

Dental Office Dispensed Whitening
These are the most often used and predictably the most successful products available. They contain fluoride and desensitizers to help eliminate the most common side effect of whitening, tooth sensitivity. There are varying strengths of whitening gel available and varying contact times. Some trays can be worn for as little as 30 minutes a day others should be worn for a few hours. There are generally two types of dental office dispensed whitening, disposable trays and custom trays. Disposable trays that are one size fit all which are preloaded with gel. These are very effective but have less control for people with gum sensitivity problems. Custom trays are the standard for whitening. These trays are custom made and fit to your teeth so there is less gum sensitivity due to whitening gel getting on the gums and the trays are reusable for future touch up whitening.

In-Office Whitening
In the office whitening is a process where very high concentration whitening gel is applied to the teeth after the gums are protected with a rubber dam or gel. This is supervised by the dental team during the process. In-office can be a one time or multiple visit process depending on the darkness of the teeth and the desired outcome. In-office whitening is best when preceded by and followed by at home dental office dispensed whitening. This process of home and in-office whitening will accomplish the highest level of whitening. Whitening is not accelerated by heat, lights and/or lasers. There have been several independent studies showing there is no advantage to heat, light and/or laser whitening.

Dr. Robert A. Gallegos is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry, he is on the faculty of Spear Education, a member the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Dental Association. Dr. Gallegos practices dentistry in Middleburg, VA. www.MiddleburgSmiles.com.