What products are available to bleach teeth with?

1. Over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whiteners:

- These are the most accessible and affordable options, available at drugstores or retail outlets.

OTC products include:

- Whitening toothpastes: These contain mild abrasive ingredients that help remove surface stains.

- Teeth whitening strips: These are thin strips coated with a whitening gel, applied directly to the teeth for a certain duration.

- Teeth whitening gels: These are applied to the teeth using a small brush or applicator.

- Whitening rinses: These are used as a mouthwash and contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to whiten teeth.

2. Professional teeth whitening:

- Performed by a dentist or dental hygienist, these treatments provide a higher concentration of bleaching agents and closer monitoring of the process.

Methods include:

- In-office teeth whitening: The dentist applies a bleaching gel to the teeth, which is activated with a special light.

- At-home professional teeth whitening: Similar to OTC products but with higher concentrations of bleaching agents. Custom-fitted trays are made to hold the whitening gel, worn for a specific time each day.

3. Other teeth whitening methods:

- Dental bonding: A composite resin is bonded to the teeth, covering up stains and discoloration.

- Dental veneers: Thin porcelain shells are attached to the teeth, providing a whiter appearance.

- Professional dental cleaning: This can remove stains and improve overall teeth appearance.

4. Natural teeth whitening methods:

- These may not be as effective as commercial or professional treatments but are considered safer for long-term use. Some methods include:

- Brushing with baking soda: Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove surface stains.

- Using hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide can be mixed with water and used as a mouthwash or applied directly to the teeth.

- Eating certain fruits and vegetables: Fruits like strawberries and vegetables like carrots have been suggested to have natural whitening effects.

It's important to consult a dentist before using any teeth whitening products or methods to ensure safety and effectiveness.