How to Compare Teeth Whiteners

By eHow Health Editor

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The sheer number of teeth whitening products on the market can make it hard to narrow down your options. You can get your teeth whitened by visiting your dentist or taking advantage of the many home based whitening systems on the market. Here's some ideas on comparing products to get your perfect Hollywood smile.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Consult with your dentist first before choosing in-office procedures or over-the-counter options. They can advise on problems with sensitive teeth, sore gums and other factors affecting which whitening products are safe for you.

Step2

Consider how much time each method takes. Professional teeth whitening from your dentist only takes one day; at-home whitening systems are require several days or weeks before results occur.

Step3

Review the price. A procedure performed by your dentist can cost hundreds of dollars, and customized take home kits from your dentist can also be pricey. Most over-the-counter products have prices comparable to other personal care items.

Step4

Determine your comfort level. At home whitening uses trays, toothpaste, strips and paint to apply whitening ingredients to your teeth. With trays, strips and paint it can be easy to swallow some of the whitening ingredients. Review all the advantages and disadvantages of each method to help you decide.

Step5

Compare how long products need to stay attached to your teeth. Most at home whitening products require 20 minutes or longer, and some may require a twice a day commitment. Consider how much free time you have to spare on the process.

Step6

Look at the active ingredient in different products. Teeth whitening systems include hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide which breaks down into hydrogen once it encounters saliva in your mouth. The stronger the solution, the whiter your teeth can get, but stronger solutions may increase teeth and gum sensitivity.

Tips & Warnings

The results from at-home whitening products differ and the whitening fades faster than with dentist methods.
Whitening products are not suited for indefinite use; follow manufactures instructions.