There are a variety of DIY in-home products that can be used to whiten teeth. Teeth whitening products come in a variety of methods, based on application procedures. This can range anywhere from gels to toothpastes to pens.
- With a gel, you can start seeing results in one to three weeks. It often involves a tray to apply the whitener. Of course, there is a mess involved at times. It also limits the use of your mouth and keeps you from speaking, chewing, or moving your jaw for a specified amount of time.
- With a whitening toothpaste, you will start seeing results in about 1-2 weeks. Whitening toothpastes are applied as you brush your teeth 2-3 times per day, and offer a lasting smile as long as the same ingredient is used. Toothpastes have the disadvantages of not being a very strong teeth whitener, as it’s primary purpose is to keep your teeth clean and have less germs, and not necessarily to remove stains.
- A more expensive option is strips, which are coated on one side with hydrogen peroxide and can clean teeth very well. Of course, the issues with teeth whitening strips involve the fact that it primarily focuses on the front of the teeth, and not on the crevices in between teeth, which can become unevenly discolored with extended use of teeth whitening strips.
- Pens provide a nearly instant white smile, and can be purchased online. It uses much the same ingredients as the other methods, but the results are great. They can be taken on the go with you so that before that important meeting, you can touch up your smile, or after that last cup of coffee, you can make sure that it’s not going to stain your teeth.
When you decide, you should probably consult your dentist to ensure the safety of the chemicals used, whether or not it is right for you after consulting your dental records.
