It’s summertime! Time for June brides and summer parties.

What better way to start the season than by showing off a whiter, brighter smile.

It’s widely known that our smile and our confidence level go hand-in-hand. And with so many companies targeting the “teeth whitening” industry, how can we tell what method is best for us? Our suggestion is to always go to the one person you should trust, your local ADA dentist.

Your dentist is going to know your medical history and they are going to be familiar with all the tools, tricks and systems out on the market. They will be able to recommend the best solution for you.

Why Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is still one of the most economical and effective ways to improving your smile. And with so many causes for teeth discoloration, including specific foods, the aging process, genetics, medications, certain drinks, and tobacco, it’s almost inevitable that we will all have a need for whitening at some point.

At-Home or In-Office Teeth Whitening Methods

With everything available, it typically comes down to two methods; At-Home and In-Office.

At-Home

Commercially available tooth whitening systems have become popular, mainly because they’re relatively inexpensive and the convenience of using in your own home on your schedule. Some of these over-the-counter teeth whitening methods can be purchased without your dentist’s supervision, including whitening strips, mouth trays with gel, whitening toothpaste, and even whitening gum. Although these products are typically safe, you do not have the guidance of an experienced dentist to oversee it. It is very important that if you have oral concerns, to ask your dentist if these products are safe to use.

In-Office

While over-the-counter tooth whitening products are available, dentist-supervised teeth whitening systems remains the safest, most effective method for brightening your smile. Professional tooth whitening in a dental office is the preferred whitening method because of the direct guidance from your dentist. They are typically stronger solutions, giving you better results quicker. With proper care afterwards, your smile with stay whiter for many years to come.

As with anything else, we always recommend you speak with your dentist first. If you’re looking for a dentist, visit with Dr. Bill Baxley in Beaumont. He offers Philips ZOOM! Teeth Whitening for in-office in addition to the ZOOM! take-home kit. You may also visit our website if you are interested in learning more about ZOOM!