Does Whitening Toothpaste Actually Work? Your Dentist Weighs In
A white, healthy smile can boost your confidence and make you more attractive to others. Everyone wants that movie star gleam, right? However, you might be unsure of how to get the dazzle that you’ve been missing. Whitening toothpastes claim to remove stains and brighten your teeth, but do that actually work? Moreover, are they safe to use? How can you choose the best toothpaste for you? Your dentist in Harris County is here to provide answers to these intriguing questions.
The Idea Behind Whitening Toothpastes
Every name-brand whitening toothpaste might claim to contain the latest and greatest ingredients for a whiter smile. However, they all work in pretty much the same way. They contain a tiny amount of peroxide or other whitening agents, which work with the paste’s slightly abrasive nature to fight surface stains.
The good news is that many toothpastes do indeed whiten teeth. The bad news is that they’re efficacy is limited. They only work on the surface, so they can’t deliver the dramatic results that you might be hoping for.
Before you buy a toothpaste, look for a seal of approval from the American Dental Association; this indicates that the toothpaste is safe and will benefit your oral health.
Choosing the Perfect Toothpaste
There is no perfect toothpaste, but there might be a perfect toothpaste for you. If you don’t have any significant oral health problems, a basic fluoride-containing product that has some whitening agents in it might be just what you need to maintain an attractive, healthy grin. On the other hand, your mouth might have special needs that require you to be a bit choosier when you’re buying oral hygiene products.
- If you have sensitive teeth, choose a toothpaste that has ingredients that will make it easier for you to enjoy hot and cold foods and beverages.
- If you are prone to cavities, pick a paste that has extra fluoride, or supplement a regular toothpaste with a fluoride-containing mouth rinse.
- If you have gum disease, look for a toothpaste that is particularly good at fighting bacteria.
Some specialty toothpastes offer whitening in addition to their health benefits, so it might be possible for you to find one that cares for your mouth and delivers cosmetic advantages.
Want More White?
Since whitening toothpastes only work on the surface, you aren’t going to see mind-blowing results from them. If you want a truly A-list grin, consider heading to your family dentist in Harris County for a professional whitening kit. It is safe and quick, and it can make your smile several shades brighter — your friends might need sunglasses when they get a glimpse of your new grin! After your treatment, you can use a whitening toothpaste to help maintain your sparkle.
Whitening toothpastes can boost your smile, but be sure to pick one that is good for your teeth as well. Bright pearly whites should be healthy!
About Hamilton Family Dentistry
Drs. Arrington is proud to provide for the oral healthcare needs of folks in Harris County. They offer a range of services that are designed to keep your teeth gorgeous and healthy. If you have questions about how to achieve a whiter smile, or if it’s time for your next checkup, you can contact our office at 706-628-0011.
