We all want whiter teeth, but not just for aesthetics; the mouth is the gateway to our gastrointestinal tract and a major player in our overall health. Whitening kits are a convenient, cost-effective way to get your smile looking its best, though it will take time and effort to maintain results. Whether you need a touch-up or your teeth are looking a bit dull, whitening kits come in several forms, including LED light devices with mouthpieces, whitening pens with a built-in reservoir for gel, and trays that can be worn like clear retainers.
The key to any whitening kit is the whitening agent, and most contain peroxide in either hydrogen or carbamide form. This ingredient penetrates the enamel and breaks up stains, says dentist Kami Hoss, author of If Your Mouth Could Talk. These whitening products typically offer a lower concentration of peroxide than what you would find in a dental office, which reduces the risk of sensitivity.
Some whitening kits also feature a combination of ingredients to help minimize the potential for sensitivity and discoloration. These ingredients can include coconut oil, sage and lemon peel oils, and Dead Sea salt, which have been known to add minerals that can help restore your smile’s natural luster. The Lumineux Teeth Whitening Kit, for example, contains peroxide-free strips that contain these ingredients, plus sodium fluoride and peppermint oil. Its booster dust includes kaolin and bentonite clays, white turmeric, and sodium bicarbonate, which you can use to manually buff away stains.
For a more permanent result, many people prefer to stick with the kind of whitening trays you might wear for a few hours each day for 10 days. The Opalescence Go kit is a Buy Side favorite, and it includes pre-filled, single-use trays that look similar to clear mouthguards and hold whitening teeth whitening kits Au gel. Wear the trays for 15 to 20 minutes each day, and once they’re removed, brush your teeth as usual.
Another option is the Shyn Brighter Teeth whitening pen, which offers a more targeted approach to stain removal. Unlike other whitening pens, this one is built with a reservoir for the whitening solution and comes in a carrying case that makes it easy to take on the go. You can also purchase a maximum-strength refill pen, which is nice to have on hand for those occasional touch-ups.
While teeth whitening kits can dramatically reduce the appearance of stains, they’re not a magic cure-all. You’ll still need to brush your teeth regularly, use a whitening toothpaste, and use floss and mouthwash to ensure the hard-to-reach places don’t get neglected. You’ll also need to avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as red wine, coffee, and dark chocolate, and stick with your treatment regimen for the best possible outcome.
If you’re ready to give your smile an extra oomph, try one of these whitening kits for the best at-home whitening experience. With a little patience and daily use, you’ll soon have your dazzling smile back again.