Does DIY teeth whitening really work?

If asked, nearly everyone would say they want a whiter smile. So when they hear about do-it-yourself, often holistic, teeth whitening methods, many jump at the chance to achieve their goals. But are these methods too good to be true? In reality, some at-home whitening methods achieve minor to moderate results. Others, however, have no effects and could even damage your teeth. So while you might try some of the safer alternatives on the market, ultimately, professional cosmetic dentistry is the only way to achieve truly transformative results.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges proudly offers both in-office Zoom!^® and take-home Opalescence^® teeth whitening. Take-home treatment provides the convenience of DIY methods, while in-office whitening offers immediate results. Regardless of the whitening method you choose, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine whether treatment is right for you.

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to schedule your appointment.

Whitening Toothpastes

Many toothpastes are marketed as being able to whiten teeth. These toothpastes often contain carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, or similar materials, which can break down stains. These products really can reduce discoloration. However, the results will not be particularly noticeable. If you decide to purchase a whitening toothpaste, make sure you buy one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are another product commonly found in drug stores. When you wear the strips for about 30 minutes a day, these products claim to dramatically reduce dental stains. Again, they do really whiten teeth. But the results probably won’t be as noticeable as you would like. Most whitening strips only lighten teeth by a shade or two.

Baking Soda and Peroxide

Some people claim that you can achieve whiter teeth by brushing with baking powder and peroxide. Alternatively, you could place these products in a mouthguard. While this method could be effective, it could also be dangerous. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate your gums, and it is easy to create an over-concentrated solution.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian remedy that is having a popular moment in Western holistic medicine. The method involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Typically, coconut oil is used. Proponents claim that it can whiten teeth and combat tooth decay and gum disease. However, while there have been some studies confirming the oral health benefits of oil pulling, currently no studies indicate that it is an effective method of teeth whitening.

Take-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment

For the most effective DIY method, consider take-home Opalescence. You will receive custom whitening trays, which you will fill with whitening gel. There are several flavors and concentrations to choose from. You can also decide how long you will wear the trays, from 15 minutes a day to overnight. Opalescence offers the flexibility of other do-it-yourself methods. At the same time, you will have the supervision of your dentist to ensure safe and truly noticeable results.