Having a radiant and beautiful smile not only impacts how you feel, but how others perceive you as well. Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, tooth discoloration can occur, especially if you enjoy having coffee or drinking red wine. 

To achieve that healthy and radiant smile, you can find a range of fast and effective whitening options at your dentist. Here is everything you need to know about teeth whitening services, the options you have available, and how you can get started. 

Top reasons that people want their teeth whitened.

Teeth whitening allows you to show off your smile with confidence. Many people struggle to fully smile because they feel self-conscious about discolored teeth, but with all the whitening options available from modern cosmetic dentistry, this is easy to resolve. 

Another reason you may be considering teeth whitening is if you enjoy drinking or eating things that stain your teeth. Drinking coffee can cause tooth discoloration—especially if you drink it every day—as can red wine. Even some fruits, like berries, can stain your teeth. With teeth whitening services, you can undo some of that damage. 

If you’re getting married, or if you have a job interview, you likely want to look your best, and that often means having a bright smile. A great smile can make a world of difference in making that first impression if you’re meeting someone new. 

A radiant smile makes you look younger as well. If you’re planning on having any kind of makeover, make sure to include teeth whitening procedures. 

Many times, the same issues that make your teeth look less white also create oral health issues. Plaque, for example, can turn your teeth yellow at the gum line, so visiting your dentist will give you an opportunity to get rid of that plaque. Boosting oral health habits and whitening your teeth go hand in hand.

The different types of tooth whitening procedures.

With all the options available, it can be tricky to know which teeth whitening procedure is best for your needs. Each one offers its own benefits, and the decision often comes down to your personal preference and dental health.

Your dentist will be able to determine which procedure is the right choice for you. Some of the most popular options include:  

In-Office Professional Whitening

In-office professional whitening is generally the most thorough option. This is the one you want to consider if you have severe discoloration or if you have a special event, like your wedding, to attend. 

When you turn to professionals, you get a powerful concentration of peroxide that you’d not otherwise have access to. It is also an option that can offer longer-lasting results. The procedure can take between 30 and 60 minutes. 

At-Home Whitening Kits and Strips

If you rather whiten your teeth at your leisure, you can turn to teeth whitening kits you use at home. These are still powerful options that you get from your dentist, but they have trays or strips you can put on while you’re doing chores or watching television. For many people, this is a convenient option.

Over-the-Counter Whitening Products

Over-the-counter options are typically the most affordable types of teeth whitening products in terms of upfront cost. You can get them at your drugstore or supermarket. They are easy to apply, though they don’t offer the same quality results as getting your teeth whitened by a dentist.

Natural and DIY Teeth Whitening Options 

One DIY whitening option you can try if you’d rather not buy teeth whitening kits is to mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide. Brush your teeth with the mixture, but use it only a few times a week, since it has the potential to erode your tooth enamel. 

How to get started with teeth whitening.

When it comes to how to whiten teeth, you can start by making an appointment with your dentist. During this appointment, let them know what your goals are, including how much whiter you’d like your teeth to be. Your dentist will ask you about your oral hygiene habits to be able to make the best recommendation. 

By taking into consideration your goals, your budget, and other factors, your dentist will present the best teeth whitening options available for your unique smile. Whether you get in-office treatment or turn to whitening kits, following all of your dentist’s directions is crucial to ensure you maintain the results. 

Make certain that you are also brushing and flossing and that you consume anything that can stain your teeth in moderation. 

Your skilled cosmetic dentist in Newport Beach can help you with your teeth whitening goals.

Teeth whitening is a popular and effective way to brighten your smile and enhance your confidence along the way. Take the first step in achieving your smile goals by turning to the experienced and skilled team of Luminous Smiles. We take pride in providing each of our clients with outstanding service and care. Contact Luminous Smiles to get started today.