If your teeth seem dull, yellow, or stained, you may be looking for a way to brighten your smile. You might have noticed specialized toothpaste at your local shop that claims to whiten teeth. But will this product actually improve the color of your smile?

Whitening toothpaste has the ability to brighten your teeth if used as directed in conjunction with your oral hygiene routine. Dr. Melvin Benson, a dentist practicing in Greeley, CO, describes how specified whitening toothpaste can give you a brighter smile.

What’s the Difference Between Traditional and Whitening Toothpaste?

Traditional toothpaste works with the act of brushing your teeth to get rid of plaque build-up as well as surface stains on your teeth. It contains abrasive substances which dissolve these minor stains on your enamel.

Specified whitening toothpaste features additional ingredients that target deeper stains to give you a brighter smile. It has hydrogen peroxide which works as a bleaching agent to whiten stubborn tooth discoloration.

For optimal cosmetic results with this toothpaste, you should use it as directed. As you choose a brand of whitening toothpaste, you should look for one that is approved by the American Dental Association.

What Other Ways Can I Whiten My Teeth?

You can protect your tooth color with good oral hygiene habits, including brushing teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings. However, sometimes tooth discoloration can occur due to factors beyond a patient’s control, like aging.

Your dentist can provide cosmetic dental treatments to help you whiten your smile in a more targeted way than over-the-counter whitening toothpaste. Professional teeth whitening treatment can be completed in your dentist’s office or from your home.

In-office whitening involves your dentist applying a whitening gel to your teeth and activating the bleaching agents with concentrated light. They can also create customized take-home trays containing this gel that will gradually whiten your smile over several weeks when used as directed. Your dentist may also suggest dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or other cosmetic procedures to enhance your smile’s appearance.

Teeth Whitening Treatment Available in Greeley, CO

Integrated Dental Arts offers professional teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dental solutions to patients in Greeley, CO. Dr. Benson also specializes in restorative, implant, and general dentistry, including emergency dental care. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 970.281.5972.