Your Best Ways to a Whiter Smile

Tooth staining is a natural part of the ageing process that’s often unavoidable. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to remedy any staining that has occurred, as well as ways to minimise future damage

DIY Teeth-Whitening

Superficial stains can often be removed with simple at-home treatments such as teeth-whitening kits, toothpastes, strips and rinses. These often use a combination of mild bleaches, abrasives and chemicals.

Whitening kits – These contain a bleach called carbamide peroxide that removes stains (including deep stains) to change the natural colour of your teeth. The kits are typically worn for 30 to 45 minutes daily for a week or longer.

Whitening strips – These thin strips are coated in a peroxide-based whitening gel and worn for a few minutes each day for at least a week. Results can be seen in just a few days and will last at least a year.

Whitening toothpastes, gels & rinses – Unlike bleaches, these over-the-counter products will not change the natural colour of your teeth. Instead, they use mild abrasives, polishing agents or chemicals to remove surface stains.

Dental Work

Deep stains may need the help of a dentist, who can apply a whitening product – usually containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide – to your teeth using a special tray that fits like a mouthguard.

If you have manufactured teeth (such as dental veneers, crowns or bridges), remember that these will not lighten in the same way as your natural teeth. To avoid a patchy result, you may want to discuss your options with your dentist prior to treatment. One option may be looking into new veneers or bonding.

Preventing Tooth Discolouration

Simple ways to prevent discolouration include:

• Avoid smoking
• Brush and/or rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods and drinks such as coffee, red wine, sports drinks, cranberry juice, grape juice, blueberries, blackberries, and beetroot.
• Brush at least twice daily, use an antiseptic mouthwash, and remember to floss.
• Have regular dental checkups and professional cleans to remove deep stains.

East Bentleigh Dental Group offers several teeth-whitening options, including in-chair laser whitening, effective take-home treatments, and natural whitening options for patients looking to remove stains without the use of harsh chemicals.  Ask about the right treatment for you today!