A close look at some of the most common options will help you make an informed decision because we all know that companies will say that all teeth whitening products, are the best and most effective way to achieve a white smile. In fact, they would say anything you would like to hear just so you would buy their products. As you read on you will learn the differences and be able to make some an informed decision.
Toothpastes That Whiten
The primary job of whitening toothpaste is to remove surface stains with the mild abrasives that it contains. Some toothpastes even contain a gentle polishing agent that aids in stain removal and gives the teeth a glimmer. Constant use of whitening toothpastes can give visible results over time. However, these whiteners do not contain a bleaching agent like hydrogen peroxide, which most other products have. This means that whitening toothpastes can only remove surface stains and thus, can only whiten teeth by about one shade.
Whitening Gels
With whitening gels you can see initial results in a few days but it would actually take about four months to achieve truly whiter teeth because the gel that contains hydrogen peroxide is applied twice a day for two weeks on the surface of the teeth using a small brush.
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips, on the other hand, are thin and nearly invisible strips that are coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. This strip is applied on the surface of the teeth twice everyday for 30 minutes for two weeks. Same with the whitening gel, you can see some difference on your teeth after a few days but you need to consistently use the product for about four months to have a whiter smile.
Tray-Based Tooth Whitening Product
A mouth guard tray that contains a gel whitening solution that contains a peroxide bleaching agent. It is fitted into the mouth by your dentist and you have to wear this tray for a couple of days overnight for up to four weeks.
To get back to your original question as to which product is the best, the answer would have to depend on several factors. If you talk about effectiveness, those that contain hydrogen peroxide work most efficiently because this chemical acts as a bleaching agent that can whiten teeth effectively. Now, if you consider other factors such as comfort for example, the whitening toothpaste would probably top the list because you only have to brush your teeth with it and you do not have to leave the solution on your teeth or sleep with a mouth guard. It would also help to consult your dentist as he can help determine which product will be most suitable for you. Some products work better on some kinds of teeth.
Jane Pennington is the owner of www.teethwhiteningsmiles.com, and has been providing teeth whitening services and information since 2000 (ph. 800-700-3173).