Discover your best and brightest smile!

Our teeth can really take a beating throughout the years. It’s probably something you try not to think about, especially when you look in the mirror and notice that your teeth no longer have that white brilliance they did when you were younger. It’s rather unfortunate, really, that so many of the foods and beverages that we love, and some of our behaviors, can result in tooth discoloration.

But you don’t need to live with a dull smile. Tooth whitening is a great option for those who have suffered the effects of red wine, colored berries, caramel-colored sodas, various medications, and even family history. Yet when you head to your local convenience store, there are countless options for tooth-whitening products. This begs the question—what is the best way to whiten your teeth?

Hite Family Dentistry Tips on the Best Way to Whiten Your Teeth

We’ll put this right out here—not all tooth-whitening products are the same. Some work better than others, and some can actually have serious negative repercussions on the health of your smile. That’s why it is so important to talk to your dentist in Edwardsville, IL, about the best teeth whitening options for you. Plus remember, what might be best for your friend down the street might not be the best option for you.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Options 

Let’s start with all of those at-home options that you see at the convenience store. Some of these will indeed whiten your teeth and give you a more radiant and confident smile. But at-home methods, especially systems that you can buy off the shelf, cost a lot of money and will only provide moderate results at best.

At-home teeth whitening methods typically use gels or strips containing low concentrations of bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These products work by penetrating the tooth’s surface to break down stains caused by food, drinks, or smoking. While they can lighten your teeth, the results are what we would call moderate and can take several weeks to notice any difference. Plus, some over-the-counter products can cause gum irritation or tooth sensitivity if not used correctly.

On the other hand, at-home whitening kits from Hite Family Dentistry are tailored to your specific needs. These dentist-provided kits contain professional-grade whitening solutions that offer better, more predictable results compared to store-bought products. The trays are custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably and allow for even distribution of the whitening gel, which means fewer side effects like sensitivity or irritation. You’ll also get the benefit of guidance from your dentist in Edwardsville, IL, to achieve a whiter smile safely.

Advantages of Professional At-Home Whitening

This all sounds pretty good, right? At Hite Family Dentistry, we’ve had client after client tell us how much they love the advantages that come with professional at-home whitening over in-office solutions. Here’s why:

• Convenience: With professional at-home whitening kits, you can enjoy the whitening process for your teeth on your own schedule. There’s no need to book an appointment, and you can use the treatment in the comfort and coziness of your own home, whether it’s during your morning routine or while winding down at night.
• Ease of Use: Custom trays make the process simple and comfortable. Unlike store-bought strips or trays, professional kits are designed to fit your teeth perfectly, making application easy and mess-free.
• Cost-Effective: While in-office whitening offers faster results, at-home whitening kits from Hite Family Dentistry provide a more affordable option. You get professional-grade results without the higher price of in-office treatments, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
• Gradual Whitening: At-home kits offer a more gradual process, which allows you to control the shade of whitening and avoid an overly bright smile that might look unnatural. You can stop once you achieve the desired result.

Get the best results from professional at-home teeth whitening options.

Though the whitening trays that we use in cosmetic dentistry in Edwardsville, IL, work wonders, there are some things you can and should do to help maximize the results and help them last longer. 

To get the best results from professional at-home teeth whitening, the first thing to do is follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. First, make sure the trays fit properly and apply the whitening gel evenly. Be consistent with the treatment schedule recommended in your tooth whitening guide to achieve a gradual and natural-looking change.

After completing your whitening process, try to enjoy foods and drinks such as red wine, coffee, tea, and dark berries in moderation, as they can contribute to staining. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth afterward with some water or use a straw for beverages. Regular brushing and flossing, along with periodic touch-up treatments, will help keep your smile bright for longer. By following your dentist’s tips for whitening your teeth and maintaining your results, you’ll enjoy a more radiant smile for months to come.

Ready to get started with the best way to whiten your teeth?

If you’ve been putting off a tooth-whitening option because you don’t have the time for a long office visit, you’re in luck. Our teeth whitening options let you manage your whitening treatment in the comfort of your home and at your own pace. Request an appointment today with Hite Family Dentistry, your dentist in Edwardsville, IL, to get started.