Over-the-counter treatments and toothpastes will no doubt lead to a whiter, more beautiful smile, but at what cost? Here are a few ways to get the white teeth you’ve been hoping for in the safest and simplest ways.
1. Watch for certain ingredients when choosing a whitening toothpaste.
Many whitening toothpastes can be harmful to the teeth if they are excessively abrasive. Over time, they can wear down the enamel and weaken the teeth. In order to get the best and safest result, look for a whitening toothpaste that is more gentle, containing baking soda rather than silica. Some whitening toothpastes are also not as effective as the whitening methods you can receive from your dentist because they lack a separate bleaching agent booster (such as peroxide) that whitens teeth deep down.
2. Get the best tools for oral hygiene.
Investing in the right teeth cleaning tools will also help to get and maintain a beautifully white and healthy smile. Toothbrushes like the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Toothbrush cost around $220 and will remove more plaque than a manual toothbrush. Compared to the money you might save from damaging results plaque and tartar buildup may cause, a toothbrush like this is a worthwhile investment.
3. If you have sensitive teeth, go to an expert.
If you have sensitive teeth, it is better to choose in-office teeth whitening because the process is monitored by your dentist. Dr. Sands also minimizes sensitivity by applying desensitizing topical products or dental dam gel to protect the gums from irritation.
4. Get a custom fit.
At-home whitening treatments that are prescribed by your dentist will always be stronger and more effective than over-the-counter whiteners. Unlike over-the-counter products, the bleaching trays you will receive from Dr. Sands are customized to fit your teeth perfectly, allowing for the most successful results.
5. Check for cavities before you whiten.
Before you choose any teeth whitening method, have your dentist check for cavities. If the bleaching agent gets inside the tooth because of decay, it can cause damage, and a root canal may be necessary.
For the quickest way to a white smile, Dr. Sands offers Zoom!® teeth whitening, which will brighten your teeth up to eight shades whiter in just one in-office treatment session. Dr. Sands also offers an at-home bleaching system that is made to fit your teeth perfectly to provide a beautifully whiter smile within a few weeks. Both methods of teeth whitening are completely safe and effective, especially when monitored by an expert.
If you are interested in teeth whitening in the Beverly Hills area, please schedule a consultation with cosmetic dentist Dr. Kevin B. Sands today. Call (310) 273-0111, or fill out our contact form for more information.