People spend over $100 billion annually on dental procedures. One of the biggest areas is teeth whitening, an industry that’s estimated to reach $6.6 billion by 2025.
What’s clear is people are always looking for(and willing to pay for) a brighter smile.
Whitening your teeth isn’t just about the cosmetic appeal. Maybe you want to a more confident smile for an upcoming interview, or for a wedding or big anniversary.
Whatever the reason, at Access Health, we’re here to help you get your best smile.
You might want to keep things simple with a whitening gel or strips, or upgrade to an in-office whitening procedure. But how do you know which option works best for you?
Each teeth whitening option has different pros and cons, and different costs. Read on to learn more about the most effective ways to whiten your teeth, and how to choose which method is best for you.
How to Whiten Teeth Naturally
Preventative measures like brushing and flossing matter and are critical for optimal oral health. But it’s also important to understand the role that certain foods (and activities, like smoking)can play in staining your teeth.
There are items you can avoid like coffee, red wine, candy, and other dark foods and drinks. These foods contain darker pigments (or tannins) that can bond to and stain your teeth.
But unless you can brush every time you eat, or have a reusable straw handy, you might need to take it a step further:
- There some natural methods that can help whiten your teeth, like coconut oil teeth pulling or using a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
- Apple cider vinegar has potential teeth bleaching effects as well. You can try making your own 30-second mouthwash!
- Some foods (like strawberries, carrots, and yogurt) have natural enzymes or acid neutralizing effects and can help you naturally whiten your teeth.
While some of these DIY solutions can get rid of surface stains for a short time, you might need to seek out stronger options for tougher stains.
Over-the-Counter Whitening Strips and Gels
At-home whitening strips and gels dominate the teeth whitening market. There are many gel whitening strips and kits to choose from, as well as toothpaste specifically designed to whiten your teeth.
Pros
What many people like about the gels is that they have the consistency of toothpaste, and can be applied or used in the same amount of time it takes to brush your teeth.
Unlike with professional tooth whitening, you may not see instant results. But after a week or so, you should notice a brighter smile.
Luckily, of all the whitening options out there, this is the most affordable option. Prices can range from $5 to $50.
Cons
Results from these strips can last you between a few months to up to a year. This all depends on which products you’re using to maintain your results and whether you’re avoiding teeth-staining foods and drinks.
In terms of upkeep, the downside is that you may find yourself buying more of these products to maintain your white teeth, which can add up.
At-Home Electronic Whitening Devices
If you’re interested in how to whiten your teeth from the comfort of your home, consider a handheld whitening device from companies like Smile Direct Club and Snow.
These devices are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth and use lights (like UV, LED, halogen) to speed up the teeth whitening process. After applying a gel solution to your teeth, you use the device for 5 minutes in the morning and evening for a week.
Pros
Compared to other procedures, these whitening devices are convenient and painless. Prices are like other at-home treatments and can range from $50 to a few hundred dollars.
Cons
These items are usually mailed, so you may need to call a friend or a live customer service agent if you’re having any issues with the device.
And while results could last up to a year, it’s recommended that you whiten your teeth for a week every 6 months to maintain your results. This could add to your current oral health routine costs.
Professional Teeth Whitening Procedures
If you’re looking for quick and reliable results, you can try a professional tooth whitening for an immediate bright smile!
There’s a unique science behind this process, which uses lights designed to enhance the whitening process.
First, a whitening agent (like hydrogen peroxide) is applied to your teeth. Then, the dentist shines UV or LED lights on your teeth, removing hard-to-erase stains.
Overall, the process is safe and effective, and takes about 40 minutes.
Pros
Professional teeth whitening procedures are the most effective way to whiten your teeth, and last the longest out of all other options. Results can last from 1 to 3 years, though some of this depends on the current state of your oral health.
Some people go back into the dental office for a touch-up as soon as a month after an in-person procedure, while others wait as much as 6 months.
Cons
Professional tooth whitening is the most expensive option, since it’s also the most effective and long-lasting.
Try In-House Whitening at Access Health Dental
Do you have a special Zoom event coming up? Or maybe you just want to upgrade your look for 2021? Try ringing in the New Year with style and a new smile!
Booking an appointment could be just what you need to boost your confidence this year.
If you’re thinking about an in-person teeth whitening session, look no further than with Access Health Dental. We provide a quick and comfortable experience for you and your family.
Prices for these treatments can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a thousand dollars! But with our New Year Special, you’ll only pay $149 (regularly $399).
Get your dream smile in 2021. Schedule a tooth whitening appointment today >