So let’s talk about a topic that’s probably been on your mind every time you see a toothpaste commercial: how to get the whitest teeth. Teeth whitening is a BIG industry (we’re talking billions of dollars here) and while a brighter smile can boost your confidence, you gotta do it safely to get your teeth whitened effectively. And you gotta make sure your teeth are healthy and plaque free before you start any whitening routine. Why? Because whitening works best on a clean, healthy mouth.
Let’s break it all down so you can get your whitest smile without damaging your pearly whites.
Teeth whitening procedures removes surfaces stains and tooth discoloration. The teeth whitening process involves a tooth bleaching agent, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, that breaks down and eliminates stains on the surface of your teeth. There are different teeth whitening methods to suit your needs and preferences.
Professional teeth whitening done by a dentist is fast and effective with high concentration bleaching agents. At-home whitening kits is a convenient option, you can whiten your teeth over time with custom trays or strips.
Natural teeth whitening remedies like baking soda and activated charcoal are popular options, but they’re not very effective and are best avoided.
Each method has its own benefits so choose the one that fits your lifestyle and whitening goals.
First things first: whitening products don’t work as well if there’s plaque and tartar around so you gotta brush your teeth regularly. Think of it this way: plaque is like a raincoat, blocking the whitening agents from reaching your enamel. That’s why a consistent brushing and flossing routine (hello, BetterMouth app!) is a must. The cleaner your teeth, the better the results.
Ever wondered why your teeth look less white or why you have yellow teeth? Here are a few reasons:
There are two ways to whiten teeth:
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the most popular whitening methods!
Dentists and dental hygienists use high concentrations peroxide gels with UV light for fast results.
Cost: $650–$1,250 per session.
Dentist-made whitening trays to whiten at home over time. You can also get custom trays made online.
Cost: $250–$500 (initial trays), $20–$40 per refill.
Whitening strips affordable and easy to use strips with peroxide gel.
Cost: $13–$60.
Brush, floss and tongue scrape daily to prevent stains.
BetterMouth Tip: Use the app’s habit tracker to stay on track and avoid yellowing, leading to whiter teeth.
Regular cleanings keep stains and tartar away.
Coffee, tea, red wine and berries can dull your shine.
Tobacco stains are hard to remove and bad for overall oral health. Smoking also speeds up tooth decay.
A cosmetic option for deep stains or damaged tooth enamel.
Your diet is key to white teeth. Foods and drinks high in sugar, acid and tannins like coffee, tea, red wine and berries can stain teeth and erode tooth enamel leading to yellow or discolored teeth. To help keep your teeth white, add foods high in fiber and water content like fruits and veggies to your diet. These foods can naturally clean and whiten teeth by stimulating saliva production and scrubbing away surface stains.
Drinking water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and stains so your teeth look their best. By making smart dietary choices you can support your whitening efforts and get a brighter smile.
When it comes to whitening teeth, avoiding the mistakes is key to getting the best results without damaging your teeth. One mistake is using whitening products too often which can lead to tooth sensitivity and erosion of tooth enamel. Follow the instructions to avoid overuse.
Another mistake is using whitening toothpastes with harsh abrasives. While these products can remove surface stains they can also wear away enamel making teeth appear more yellow over time. Using hydrogen peroxide at home without guidance can cause serious tooth damage. Use whitening products as directed and consult with your dentist if you have any concerns about tooth sensitivity or enamel health.
With so many teeth whitening products out there choosing the right one can be tough. When choosing a whitening product look for one with a mild abrasive and a tooth bleach like hydrogen peroxide. These ingredients will break down stains and whiten teeth.
Also choose a product that’s suitable for your teeth and gums especially if you have sensitive teeth. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid any side effects. If you’re not sure which product to choose consult with your dentist for personalized advice. They can recommend the best whitening products for your dental health and whitening goals.
If you’re getting professional whitening, preparation is key to getting the best results. Start by brushing and flossing your teeth daily to remove any plaque and tartar that may be present. This will allow the whitening agents to penetrate the enamel better.
Avoid consuming foods and drinks that can stain your teeth like coffee, tea and red wine for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Also inform your dentist of any tooth sensitivity or dental work you’ve had in the past as this can affect the whitening process. By doing these you can have a smoother and more successful professional whitening experience.
Not all whitening methods are created equal! Avoid:
Best results come from combining a healthy oral care routine with the right whitening product for you. Whether it’s whitening toothpaste, professional treatments or just avoiding coffee stains there’s a solution for every smile.
So remember whitening works best on clean teeth so start with a solid foundation. Use BetterMouth to track your brushing, flossing and rinsing habits and you’ll be smiling brighter in no time. 😊
Download BetterMouth now!
BetterMouth is an app designed to build healthy habits for improved oral care and overall well-being.
