The appearance of your teeth can have a significant impact on the way you feel about yourself. Several reasons can cause discoloration of teeth, especially if you are a smoker or a coffee-drinker. In this article, we will talk about different teeth whitening procedures that will help you regain your beautiful smile.

1. Toothpaste
Toothpaste is formulated with mild abrasives that can help the removal of surface stains. This is the reason dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day. You can also consider buying toothpaste that contains teeth-whitening polishing agents. However, it is important to note that they do not change the color of your teeth. Therefore, they must only be used to remove surface stains. It can often take up to several weeks to show visible results. You would also have to stop teeth discoloration habits, such as drinking coffee and smoking.

2. Gels and strips
You can easily buy OTC gels and strips for teeth whitening. These products contain peroxide that helps in whitening your teeth. The gel is applied using a small brush, but the instructions may vary depending on the concentration of peroxide. Therefore, you must carefully read the instructions before applying. Once you start the process, it may take up to four months to show noticeable results. Whitening strips also work similarly. These clear strips are coated with peroxide gel that must be applied to your teeth twice a day for 30 minutes. You will have to continue applying them for at least two weeks for the results to show. The results often last up to four months or longer if you practice proper dental hygiene.

3. Bleaching
The most effective method for teeth whitening is to undergo professional bleaching carried out by a dentist. A dentist uses a gel that contains components that are more potent than their OTC counterparts, giving you visible results in the first few sessions. The bleaching agents used by dentists usually contain between 15% to 43% hydrogen peroxide. The expert will assess the stains on the teeth before recommending bleaching. The methods used by the dentists will whiten your teeth and protect your enamel from eroding. These methods can either be performed in their clinics or at your home with their guidance. Most patients can see immediate results following a single session. However, you may require multiple appointments for drastic effects on your teeth discoloration.

These are the three different teeth whitening procedures that most dental professionals recommend. Teeth whitening is a popular procedure that people often choose to obtain a stain-free smile. Not only is it an effective method to whiten your teeth, but it also has the potential to improve your self-confidence. When buying teeth whitening products, always look for the seal of approval.