Share |

Do Home Teeth Whitening Kits Work?

By Diane Hanson

You want whiter teeth but going in for a teeth whitening treatment at the dentist's can be insanely pricey. So you opt for over-the-counter home teeth whitening products instead. While they are generally safe to use, there are still a few things you need to know prior to using teeth whitening kits at home.

1. First, get your teeth examined and cleaned by a dentist. If you have had restorative dental work such as veneers, crowns, or an implant done previously, you should understand that they will not bleach lighter like your natural teeth.

When you whiten your teeth, they become whiter and brighter but the materials used in implant cannot be whitened.

As a result, you get an uneven coloring of your teeth – the dental restorations stand out from the others when you smile.

2. In addition, be aware that teeth whitening works only on live teeth. It will not whiten teeth that has undergone root canal treatment.

3. Bleaching products may not be all that effective on darkly stained teeth. If staining is caused by medications such as tetracycline – a blue gray tint – your teeth may not response well to home teeth whitening treatments, and may take several months to lighten.

4. If you have gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, or exposed roots, avoid teeth whitening procedure. You should seek professional dental treatment before undergoing any bleaching process. The whitening solutions may penetrate into existing decay or the inner areas of the tooth, resulting in teeth sensitivity.

5. Teeth whitening procedures during pregnancy or nursing is not advisable. Although no side effects are known, it is best to avoid it as a precautionary measure. It is also recommended that those under the age of 18 should not use teeth whitening.

6. Begin the home whitening process gradually. For the first day, wear the bleaching trays for only 1-2 hours. This allows you to determine the sensitivity level of your teeth. If you encounter gum irritation or increased sensitivity with an over-the-counter whitening kit, visit your dentist. He may prescribe fluoride to help reduce teeth sensitivity.

7. If the whitener is causing discomfort, stop the teeth whitening program for a few days or use it on alternate days. By doing so, your teeth and gums can recover between exposures to the peroxide and other bleaching ingredients. Also, avoid a bleaching product if you are allergic to hydrogen peroxide.

8. Bushing teeth before whitening is not suggested as it may cause abrasion and sensitivity. Also, make sure your dental trays fit properly. An ill-fitting whitening tray can cause extra sensitivity.

9. Avoid from foods and drinks that cause staining right after your whitening procedure. Coffee, tea, cola, red wine, berries, curry, smoking etc. can naturally stain your teeth. Once your teeth have been whitened, brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to prevent discoloring and staining.

Home teeth whitening kits do work, but they take time to see results. Be realistic and don't expect miracles overnight. Although home bleaching kit cannot make a complete color change, it will lighten the existing shade considerably.

Is Your Toothbrush Clean?

Your toothbrush may be a breeding ground for bacteria growth. Learn how to sanitize and keep toothbrushes germ-free for each day's use.

5 Best Homemade Toothpaste Recipes

Make your own toothpaste that cleans and whitens naturally, and avoid harmful additives.

Homemade Toothpaste for Kids

Make natural organic kids toothpaste. Incredibly easy and cheap. Your kids will love brushing their teeth with it!

What’s Lurking in Your Toothpastes?

Toothpaste may clean your teeth, but it comes with potential health risks. What are the hidden dangers of toothpaste and harmful ingredients to avoid?

Teeth Whitening Options

Everyone wants a whiter smile but how do you whiten your teeth in a safe and effective way?

How to Have Healthy Teeth and Gums

Learn to take proper care of your teeth and gums so that they stay strong and healthy throughout your life.

Sensitive Teeth Home Remedies

Try out these proven home remedies that help you make teeth less sensitive and cure painful sensitive teeth once and for all.

How to Protect Your Teeth from Acid Erosion

Tooth erosion can lead to tooth loss. Read about the causes and what you can do to protect your teeth from acid damage.

Bad Breath Natural Remedies

What stops bad breath? Find the causes of halitosis and home cures to get rid of bad breath quickly and naturally.