Huntsville Teeth Whitening: Professional & Home Options for a Brighter Smile

Teeth Whitening Options in Huntsville

A bright, white smile can do wonders for your confidence and appearance. However, over time teeth naturally yellow and stain from food, drinks like coffee and tea, and habits like smoking. Luckily there are many options to whiten your teeth available in the Huntsville area.

Professional Whitening Treatments

Getting a professional teeth whitening treatment at your dentist's office is the fastest, most dramatic way to whiten your teeth. Most professional whitening uses a hydrogen peroxide gel at a high concentration that is activated by a specialized light or laser. Results are seen after just one 30-60 minute treatment, with teeth whitened up to eight shades brighter.

Some popular professional whitening options in Huntsville include Zoom Whitening and Britesmile. While results are fast, treatments range from $300-$600 which can be pricey. They also have a higher risk of tooth and gum sensitivity as a side effect.

Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits

For a more affordable option, there are many over-the-counter teeth whitening products available in Huntsville. Most kits use carbamide peroxide gels, strips or trays moldable to your teeth. Popular budget friendly brands include Crest Whitestrips, Go Smile and Plus White.

While more gentle on teeth, over-the-counter kits take longer to see results - usually 10-14 days with 30 minutes to an hour of use per day. And they may not whiten teeth more than two or three shades brighter. But for gradual, subtle whitening OTC kits offer convenience and affordability.

Lifestyle Tips for Staining Less While Whitening

In addition to whitening treatments and products, adjusting some daily habits can help keep stains away and prevent future yellowing for brighter teeth over time.

Brush and Floss Properly

Be sure to brush teeth twice a day for two minutes, holding the brush at a 45 degree angle and moving it in short strokes. And don't forget to floss at least once per day to clear away plaque and debris between teeth that can lead to stains.

Rinse With Mouthwash

Swishing daily with an antiseptic mouthwash removes bacteria that could cause gum disease and stains over time. For whiter teeth, use a mouthwash formulated for stain removal like Crest Pro Health Advanced.

Drink Dark Beverages With a Straw

Sipping staining drinks like coffee, tea, soda and red wine through a straw prevents dark liquid from coating your teeth. A straw lets most of the stain-causing drink avoid contact with your pearly whites.

Stay Hydrated with Water

Drink plenty of plain water each day to rinse your mouth and teeth. Water keeps tissues hydrated and helps neutralize stains and acids from food and drinks. It's best to drink water after consuming any staining foods or beverages.

Don't Smoke or Use Tobacco Products

Avoid tobacco altogether for the healthiest teeth and gums, as smoking introduces tons of stains causing chemicals to your mouth. If quitting proves difficult, swish with water after smoking to reduce yellowing.

Discuss Teeth Whitening with Your Dentist

With all the products and options for teeth whitening in Huntsville, it can seem overwhelming deciding the best choice for your smile. Be sure to talk with your dentist before using any over-the-counter whitening kits or starting treatments.

Your dentist can help determine if whitening is right for you based on the condition of your teeth and gums. Certain conditions may make some methods unsafe. A dental checkup can also uncover if stains are superficial or internal, guiding the best bleaching approach.

They can also provide custom fitted trays and prescription strength whitening gels to safely brighten your smile a few shades or completely reversing years of discoloration. Consulting a dental professional ensures you find the most effective teeth whitening with the least sensitivity.

With the many teeth whitening options available in the Huntsville area, as well as some adjustments to daily habits, you can enjoy a brighter, more beautiful smile. Just be sure to consult with your dentist so you safely achieve maximum results.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to whiten my teeth?

The fastest teeth whitening uses professional treatments at your dentist's office, such as Zoom Whitening or Britesmile. These can whiten teeth up to eight shades brighter in one 30-60 minute treatment.

What over-the-counter kits work to whiten teeth?

Popular and effective over-the-counter whitening kits include Crest Whitestrips, Go Smile whitening kits, and Plus White 5 minute speed whitening system.

Can whitening damage my teeth?

Whitening can make teeth temporarily sensitive or irritated. That's why it's important to consult your dentist before whitening to rule out conditions that may make whitening unsafe for your teeth.

How long do whitening results last?

With touch-up treatments once or twice per year, professional whitening results can last 1-3 years. Over-the-counter kits usually last 6 months to a year, but need more frequent reapplication.