Do over-the-counter whitening products work?
For the most part, yes (though not as fast nor impressive as the ones that require you to sit in a dentist chair of some sort). You might notice that some of the toothpastes that boast whitening power do not actually whiten teeth per say, but rather "deep clean stains" in the teeth. Whitening strips are effective but also wear away at the enamel of your teeth. Regular brushing after ever meal, not smoking, and limiting consumption of teas and coffees is the best way to keep your teeth white.
Frequently, dentists hear from people who have not gotten the results they wanted through over-the-counter whiteners. In fact, I have never seen a patient that has gotten good results this way. Several factors can contribute to the darkening of teeth, including the effects of age, foods and drinks, smoking and some medications. Darkened teeth caused by oral supplements or medications pose more of a challenge. The whitening process involves placing a whitening solution in contact with the teeth, causing oxidation of stains and subsequent lightening. There are a variety of systems available, ranging from those done in the dental office to dentist supervised at-home systems.
Yes. The best over-the-counter product we have seen is the Whitestrips. Other OTC products available are not as safe and can irritate the gum tissues. However, OTC whitening products do not whiten as efficiently or to the same extent as custom made Whitening trays can. Custom fit trays are made from models of your teeth and provide a better way to whiten your teeth.
Frequently, we hear from people who have not gotten the results they wanted through over-the-counter whiteners. Several factors can contribute to the darkening of teeth, including the effects of age, foods and drinks, smoking and some medications. Darkened teeth caused by oral supplements or medications pose more of a challenge. The whitening process involves placing a whitening solution in contact with the teeth, causing oxidation of stains and subsequent lightening. There are a variety of systems available, ranging from those done in the dental office to dentist supervised at-home systems.
