In my opinion, based on personal experience, as well as research I have conducted, the answer to this question depends on several factors. One factor would be the age of the person using the product. Another factor would be the actual brand of product being used. One more factor would be the length of time the actual product is used.
Since there are so many products on the market, it would be virtually impossible for one person to test them all in their adult lifetime. There are however some criteria that should be considered. One factor or criteria a person would need to consider would be the price of the product being considered.
Some products may be thought by the consumer to be reliable because they are offered by a dentist. These products are typically very pricey, and it has been my experience that even though they are comparatively expensive they are not always any more effective than some of the less expensive products on the market today.
Aside from cost, as we age our teeth become more stained in time. Some of these stains (yellowing) may be actually easier to remove than a gray cast from the eroding of tooth enamel. Since the yellowing of the teeth from such things as drinking coffee or tea are usually somewhat superficial, they are usually easier to remove with a relatively inexpensive teeth whitening kit which may be purchased at the local pharmacy, or even grocery store.
In conclusion, the higher the percentage of peroxide in the product, the more effective the product. It is always wise to do your research first and consider the sensitivity of your gums as well as the health of your teeth. Included in that would be the condition of the tooth enamel.
It can usually help to maintain the whitening effect by using a whitening toothpaste in conjunction with the whitening gel. When stains have not been visible for a significant number of years (less than 5), it is possible to fade stains with a home remedy of peroxide and baking soda. However, this can be irritating to the gums. In most cases, an inexpensive gel is recommended. Depending on the age of the person, it can be helpful to check to percentage of peroxide included in the product which can be found in the list of active ingredients.
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There are many diy products on the market to whiten your teeth. They can range from under ten to over one hundred dollars, and all provide a variety of results. The least expensive and most accessible product is a teeth whitening toothpaste. It is also the easiest to use.
Whitening toothpastes, however, can only remove surface stains and therefore only lighten your teeth about one shade. The least affective, but perhaps just as easy as the toothpaste, is a whitening rinse. It is just like a mouthwash, but contains teeth whitening chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide. Results may take up to twelve weeks to show.
Other products that are available are over-the-counter whitening strips and gels. These are used for 14 days, and can lighten your teeth up to 2 shades. The price for a gel usually runs around $15, and the strips can cost from there up to $55. There are also teeth whitening trays, which some brands claim to be able to whiten teeth up to 8 shades. These can be priced even more expensive than the strips; sometimes costing around $100.
No matter what method of whitening you use though, the strongest products are going to come from your dentist. Most dentists sell whitening strips, gels, or trays which contain a stronger bleaching agent than any over-the-counter product. These products are usually sold at a slightly higher price than those in a store, but the stronger formula is worth the small price raise.
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Baking soda – also known as sodium bicarbonate, represented by the chemical compound NaHCO3 – is a popular household product with many amazing properties. You can use it to scrub stains out of the carpet, to help prevent offensive odors in your refrigerator, to treat acid indigestion and sunburn… And even to whiten teeth.
Well, technically speaking, baking soda doesn’t “whiten” your teeth. What it does is break down the stains on your teeth and scrub them away. This can make your teeth appear somewhat lighter, although the process is generally more effective on brown or yellow stains and less effective on gray areas.
Toothpaste with Baking Soda
There are toothpastes on the market that contain baking soda, and they are probably easier (and arguably more effective) to use than brushing your teeth with straight baking soda. On the other hand, baking soda by itself can be less expensive than toothpaste.
Baking Soda & Salt
If you decide to use baking soda by itself, dissolve a spoonful in a full glass of water and then mix in a bit of salt until it takes on a paste-like consistency. Brush your teeth with it and then spit it out and rinse well. You can probably expect to feel some tingling while you are brushing. Don’t do this more than once every two weeks, or you could harm your teeth.
People have been using baking soda to lighten their teeth for centuries, and using baking soda shouldn’t be dangerous. But just to be safe, you should always talk to your dentist before you begin any dental treatment plan. If you already have sensitive teeth or gums, the corrosive nature of baking soda could cause you some pain or other problems.
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