These days, most of the world sees us from the shoulders up, whether it’s a Zoom meeting with colleagues or a FaceTime happy hour with friends. While you may be happy to get away with wearing sweatpants, you may be thinking about leaving a brighter impression with your smile.
The cost of an in-office procedure can vary depending on where you live, but according to the American Dental Association's 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, the average whitening treatment is just under $300 and can reach up to almost double that. Even the less expensive option, undertaking an external bleaching application at home, runs from $108 to $495 because of the materials and fabrication of custom trays.
Cue the trip to your local pharmacy or surfing the internet, where there are more products than ever on the market claiming to whiten your teeth. You may be wondering if they’re worth your money. Not only that, but do they actually work, and could they potentially harm your teeth in the process?
We spoke to Dr. Ada Cooper, DMD, a dentist based in New York City and spokesperson for the ADA, on what to keep in mind when it comes to touching up your pearly whites.
Regular brushing and flossing is the first step toward a brighter smile
It may seem obvious, but simply taking care of your teeth is the best everyday way to keep your smile bright and healthy, according to Dr. Cooper. It doesn’t matter whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, as long as you’re using it and brushing your teeth effectively every day.
And don’t forget about flossing. You might even consider this Waterpik Whitening Water Flosser, which offers a more advanced solution to traditional thread.
Similarly, a standard dental cleaning is all some patients need to get rid of certain stains and discolorations, so don’t skimp on your regular dental visits, either.
“Whitening products aren't meant to clean your teeth—they don't remove plaque or bacteria that can cause tooth decay, and they don’t treat tooth decay that causes discoloration,” Dr. Cooper explains. “Whitening isn't a substitute for the basics, like brushing or flossing and getting the dental care that you need.”
Consult with your dentist before choosing a whitening treatment
Not all teeth stains and discolorations are created equal, Dr. Cooper says. A dental cleaning can remove surface stains, even if they’re on crowns and fillings. They can also be minimized by using an over-the-counter product with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, such as Tom’s of Maine Simply White Clean Mint Toothpaste.
Keep in mind that yellow staining tends to whiten better than gray-colored stains, and if your discoloration is caused by aging, then in-office whitening products are probably going to be most effective, she says.
Such procedures may entail your dentist applying a protective gel to your gums and other tissues before applying a whitening material to your teeth, possibly activating the material with a light. Depending on your starting shade, your smile may be transformed within an hour or two. The ADA-approved Colgate Optic White Toothpaste, on the other hand, requires regular use over six weeks to see results, according to the brand.
Your dentist might also give you the option to do an at-home bleaching technique. They’ll make a custom whitening tray and supply the material to apply at home yourself over the course of a couple of weeks.
“The method you choose should depend on what your priorities and preferences are—some patients may not be comfortable wearing or sleeping with at-home trays, while others might be too prone to tooth sensitivity for the in-office treatment,” Dr. Cooper says.
Don’t try to whiten your teeth with household remedies
When you browse your local pharmacy’s shelves, you’ll notice that many over-the-counter whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the active ingredients or bleaching agents, including the ever-popular and ADA-approved Crest 3D White Whitestrips.
Some may even tout other familiar ingredients, like baking soda and charcoal, right on the front of the packaging, Dr. Cooper says.
While you may be tempted to go straight to the source, most products use these ingredients in smaller, safe amounts. You should avoid DIY remedies that involve applying mild abrasives directly to your teeth, Dr. Cooper says, and similarly, don’t trust anything you may have heard about sucking on citrus fruits or applying apple cider vinegar to your teeth. Doing so can increase sensitivity and actually cause more yellow teeth than white, she says.
“Not only is there no evidence that they can help whiten your teeth, but these acidic materials can actually destroy tooth enamel and damage your gums,” she says. “Fruit is certainly a great nutritional choice, but you’re putting your teeth’s health at risk when you expose them to that acid for a prolonged period of time.”
Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance when choosing an over-the-counter product
According to Dr. Cooper, the number-one thing you should look for when choosing an at-home whitening toothpaste or other product is the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
When you search the ADA’s database, you may notice that there aren’t as many options as you’d expect. It’s worth noting that the approval process requires application and licensing fees, meaning not all brands may submit their products. On the other hand, you know the products you find in there are safe and effective.
Even with this stamp of approval, it’s still important to first consult your dentist for their medical advice, because the concentration of the whitening agent in over-the-counter products is going to be lower than treatments that your dentist can provide.
This means that even if you use a product correctly, the result may not be as noticeable as you would like if your level of stains and discoloration merit an in-office procedure. Talk to your dentist to ensure that you're going to get the result you really want with the method you choose.
Make sure you’re using products correctly, and be wary of risks
It’s key to follow the instructions on the product you choose, as any whitening product that is overused can damage the tooth and your gums, Dr. Cooper says. One of the side effects that patients often experience from tooth whitening is dental sensitivity. Although it may go away after you stop whitening, you never know if that sensitivity is the side effect of the whitening product or if it’s caused by something else.
“Fractured teeth, cavities, gum disease, exposed roots can all cause tooth sensitivity,” Dr. Cooper says. “Make sure that if you're feeling those things, that you're able to rule out all of these other causes, and if your dentist can't find any other cause of the sensitivity, they’ll probably recommend that you decrease the frequency of whitening.”
If this sounds like you and you prefer an at-home treatment, consider the Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit. According to the instructions, you’re in the clear to talk and drink water while you’re wearing the strips.
Lastly, your health habits matter, too
There’s definitely truth to claims that things like coffee, red wine, soda, and dark berries can contribute to teeth staining, Dr. Cooper says.
That doesn’t mean you have to give up the things you enjoy in the pursuit of whiter teeth—just be sure to rinse your mouth out after consuming them and continue to brush daily to reduce the chance that they’ll affect your teeth.
Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause stains, too, and in this case, Dr. Cooper advises that you work to quit entirely, since the health risks go beyond affecting your smile.
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feature FAQs
How can I naturally lighten my smile? ›
- Practice good oral hygiene. ...
- Use teeth whitening pens. ...
- Use a banana peel. ...
- Use a whitening toothpaste. ...
- Chew sugarless gum. ...
- Get a professional teeth whitening. ...
- Visit your dentist twice a year.
A mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide has been proven to work in some cases for instant results in a pinch. Combine two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one tablespoon of baking soda. Mix it until it becomes a paste and use it to brush your teeth.
How do you get the whitest teeth ever? ›- Brush Your Teeth With Whitening Toothpaste. ...
- Don't Consume Anything That Stains Teeth. ...
- Eat Less Food With Added Sugar. ...
- Oral Hygiene Is Key. ...
- Stop Smoking. ...
- Use a Custom Whitening Tray. ...
- Book an Appointment at the Dentist.
- Injectable fillers. Injectable fillers are among the top choices for people looking to get rid of smile lines without undergoing surgery. ...
- Botox. ...
- Surgery. ...
- Laser treatments. ...
- Collagen induction therapy. ...
- OTC creams. ...
- Home light treatment.
Follow good oral hygiene.
Another great way to improve your smile is to practice good oral hygiene such as brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular dental exams and teeth cleanings. Brushing and flossing your gums as well as rinsing with mouthwash will help support your teeth by nourishing your gum structure.
What Can Be Done to Whiten Yellow Teeth? If you're looking for a radical change in the coloring of your teeth, you need professional-grade whitening to get the job done. Your cosmetic dentist can provide treatment that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes years of stains with a powerful bleaching agent.
Why are my teeth yellow when I brush them everyday? ›Consuming Certain Foods and Drinks
Other teeth-staining foods include coffee, citrus fruits and juices, soft drinks, teas, berries, tomato-based sauces, curry, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce. Ingredients in these foods can seep into your enamel (the outermost covering of your teeth) and cause discoloration.
Crest 3D White Brilliance whitening toothpaste
“Crest 3D is probably one of the most popular whitening toothpastes. It contains fluoride and claims to defend against stains for 12 hours,” says Dr.
A study has confirmed what we already know – that a white and evenly spaced set of teeth makes people seem more attractive. But it has also explained the reason. It is because teeth are the human equivalent of a peacock's tail – a sign of health and genetic quality designed to help choose a mate.
Are super white teeth attractive? ›Surveys and studies have consistently shown that white, evenly spaced teeth make people more attractive to others. The reasoning behind this is simple and can be compared to the animal equivalent of a peacock's tail.
How do actors get their teeth so white? ›
Porcelain Veneers
These are very popular amongst celebrities because of their incredible results. Veneers are thin, strong shells that are custom-made from dental porcelain to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can fix small cracks, chips, gaps, and discoloration all at once.
- Exercise Your Smile. Mouth exercises done throughout the day will improve the shape of your mouth and tighten loose muscles. ...
- Practice Smiling. ...
- Smile Frequently. ...
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene. ...
- Get Treatment.
Good Oral Hygiene.
Making sure you brush twice a day, floss and use mouthwash as necessary can make a huge difference to having a white and bright smile. Remember healthy gums should be pink, while red gums mean inflammation and something is going on – so pop to your dentist should you notice that.
So, how do the vast majority of celebs, from Matt Damon to Emma Watson, achieve such perfect teeth? One word: veneers. Cosmetic dentistry (veneers and no-prep veneers in particular) is the only sure-fire way to get a Hollywood-level smile.
Why do my smile lines get dark? ›Skin discoloration around the mouth is caused by excess melanin production in your skin. Hormonal changes, medications, and sun exposure are related to hyperpigmentation. Nutritional deficiencies, skin trauma, and other medical conditions may also cause skin discoloration.
How can I plump up my smile lines? ›- Separate your lips a little.
- Use your fingers to pull the corners of the mouth backward toward your neck.
- Pull back, keeping the lips parallel.
- Hold for 10 seconds.
- Relax and release your skin.
- Repeat this 10 to 25 times.
Some people have smile lines from a young age, but the deeper creases form with increased age, weight gain, smoking, a loss of collagen, and dental problems (when the teeth no longer support the overlying tissue). Smile lines can also include creases around the eyes, as the skin moves each time we smile.
How do you upgrade your smile? ›- Whitening. When it comes to getting a whiter and brighter smile, there are a variety of teeth-whitening products you can try. ...
- Crowns. A crown is a good way to cover teeth that are discolored or badly shaped. ...
- Veneers. ...
- Bonding. ...
- Braces. ...
- Implants. ...
- Brushing and Flossing. ...
- Regular Dental Visits.
Download and install the MySmile App on your Android or iOS mobile phone; 3. Follow the prompts on the MySmile App to activate your SmileNumber and you are ready to make/receive calls and SMSs. Smile has a FREE eSIM offer that includes 10 local minutes + unlimited FREE on-net calls.
Can you fix the shape of your smile? ›Straightening & Whitening With Veneers
Veneers were originally invented as a quick fix for the teeth of Hollywood stars, and they're still a great way to re-shape your smile quickly and easily. Veneers are thin porcelain sleeves that are slipped over your natural teeth and permanently cemented in place.
Does brushing 3 times a day whiten teeth? ›
Tooth Brushing Isn't Meant to Whiten Teeth
Brushing twice a day (or more if recommended by a dentist) is essential, as it removes plaque and prevents cavities. The bristle action of a toothbrush won't whiten teeth, though, and even whitening toothpastes can only have a limited effect on the surface of teeth.
Yellow or discolored teeth can be unattractive causing teeth to look prematurely aged, or dirty. Patients with discolored teeth may feel embarrassed of their smile and hide their smile in photos or while laughing. White, bright smiles can help patients feel more confident in professional and personal interactions.
Does Crest 3d white work? ›If you want to know the truth, yes, Crest Whitestrips do work. They can make your teeth look whiter because of a gel that is spread along the strip and placed onto the surface of your teeth. This substance contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide and works to penetrate the tooth enamel to remove stains.
Why are my teeth rotting even though I brush them? ›There are several reasons as to why your teeth are bad even after brushing them. Some of the most common causes include: not using the right toothpaste, not flossing, brushing too hard, and not brushing your teeth for a long enough time.
Do Crest White Strips work on yellow teeth? ›Whitening strips can be an effective way of improving the appearance of stained or yellow teeth, but the possible problems above should give you pause for thought before deciding to start using them.
Why aren't my teeth getting whiter? ›If your teeth and gums aren't in the best shape or if you've had a lot of previous dental work, both issues can affect your results with traditional teeth whitening treatments. You won't be able to whiten either porcelain crowns or most commonly used dental bonding materials.
Does baking soda whiten teeth? ›Baking soda is good for teeth whitening because it is a very mild abrasive, which helps remove stains from the surface of your teeth. In addition, baking soda is alkaline and salty, which helps lighten acid-based food stains – such as those from coffee, tea, and red wine – on teeth.
Does hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›Hydrogen peroxide is a common and effective active ingredient in many commercial teeth whitening solutions. Products containing peroxides, such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, act as bleaching agents to change the color of the teeth.
How can I get super white teeth overnight? ›- Apple Cider Vinegar For White Teeth. Save. ...
- Baking Soda And Lime Juice For Teeth Whitening. Save. ...
- Banana Peel To Whiten Teeth. ...
- Coconut Oil To Whiten Teeth. ...
- Orange Oil For Teeth Whitening. ...
- Sesame Oil For Teeth Whitening. ...
- Charcoal To Whiten Teeth. ...
- Gargling With Peroxide To Whiten Teeth.
The study found that Americans perceive people with straight teeth as having more attractive qualities than those with crooked teeth, such as being happy, professionally successful, and surrounded by loved ones.
Why are Americans obsessed with straight white teeth? ›
According to studies, those with white, straight teeth are 38 percent more likely to be perceived as smart. The same percentage would turn down a date with someone who had misaligned teeth. In a culture that values youth and success, it's no wonder that Americans smile upon those who have picture-perfect pearly whites.
Are whiter teeth weaker? ›Non-White or Yellow Teeth are Unhealthy
Teeth whitening treatments usually work by stripping or entering the outer enamel layer, which makes teeth weaker if done many times. So, more often than not, yellow teeth are actually stronger than pearly white ones–so long as they're cleaned regularly.
Keep those teeth pearly white.
A study confirmed that a white and evenly spaced set of teeth make people seem more attractive.
60% of men claimed they care the most about teeth for a potential date, compared to 71% of women who said the same thing. Good teeth play a huge role in the look of a person's smile. A great smile can mean so much and people who try to hide their smile can give off a bad vibe.
Do girls like straight white teeth? ›A good set of pearly whites can go a long way in the dating world. Over a quarter of men and 87% of women say they either very much or somewhat value straight teeth. For some, white teeth represent health and indicate someone who maintains a healthy lifestyle.
How long does it take to whiten teeth with baking soda? ›It may take as long as two to three weeks for the baking soda to whiten your teeth so you will need to be diligent with the new routine. If you have time, you should strive to use the whitening mixture twice a day, once at night and once in the morning but at least once per day.
How much more attractive do white teeth make you? ›And while a facelift doesn't increase your attractiveness at all, according to the survey, a whiter smile can also increase your attractiveness by 20%. So it's no surprise that this makes yellow teeth a major concern for people who are dating.
Why are American teeth perfect? ›The popularity of this look stems from a desire to appear more intelligent, sophisticated, and beautiful than your average Joe or Jane. Many people believe that having straight teeth will make them seem more appealing to others and help them achieve their goals in life.
How do you know if your smile is attractive? ›Ideally, your smile should reveal most of your teeth and form a gentle arc, sweeping back into the “buccal corridor,” the dark space between your teeth and the corners of your mouth. A little dark space is important to create contrast and make your teeth seem whiter.
How do you fix a flat smile? ›One of our most popular and recommended treatments for fixing little smiles is the cosmetic procedure; veneers. Veneers are often referred to as instant orthodontics because they can be applied instantly and give the impression of a straight smile.
What triggers a smile? ›
When our brains feel happy, endorphins are produced and neuronal signals are transmitted to your facial muscles to trigger a smile. This is the start of the positive feedback loop of happiness.
How do I get a perfect smile naturally? ›- #1 Use muscle memory for what a natural smile feels like.
- #2 Analyze Smiles in Photos.
- #3 Think About Things That Make You Happy.
- #4 Learn to Smile with Your Eyes.
- #5 Raise Your Chest and Posture When Smiling.
- #6 Practice in the Mirror.
- #7 Recognize Different Types of Smiles.
- #8 Practice Good Dental Hygiene.
- Watching a funny movie.
- A long phone call with a friend.
- Eating your favorite food.
- Cooking a meal for someone else.
- Baking a cake from scratch.
- Doing something nice for someone without them knowing.
- Hitting a personal best during your workout.
- Having a lazy day where you do nothing but relax.
Studies have shown that those with whiter smiles and evenly spaced teeth are seen as more attractive than those with opposite qualities. Another study has confirmed those with perfect teeth are perceived as more successful, more intelligent, and have more dates.
Who has the nicest teeth in Hollywood? ›Halle Berry
Only outranked by her talent, the actress's smile is one most people would die for. It's so close to perfect, in fact, that celebrity cosmetic dentist Dr. Ron Baise ranked Halle Berry's smile as being the closest Hollywood grin to a true “million dollar smile.” How did he reach this conclusion?
Banana peels don't do anything to whiten your teeth. Many articles recommend rubbing the peel against your teeth for a few minutes. While this could scrub off some surface stains, it's no more effective than brushing your teeth. Banana peels have no special whitening properties.
How can I whiten my teeth in 5 minutes? ›One-part salt and three parts mustard oil is all you need. So, if you are taking one teaspoon of salt, use three teaspoons of mustard oil, and rub it on your teeth for a few minutes. You can either use your finger to massage it on your gums and teeth or gently use your toothbrush.
How to make teeth whiter in 3 minutes with baking soda? ›- Add one teaspoon of baking soda to a small bowl.
- Mix in a few drops of water.
- Stir until it becomes a paste.
- Apply mixture to toothbrush and brush it on your teeth.
- Leave the paste on your teeth for 2-3 minutes.
- Rinse out thoroughly with water and you're done.
The most common and effective ways to get a whiter smile, just like the celebrities, are not through at-home whitening treatments. In fact, they can often be a waste of money. Most celebrities opt for regular teeth whitening treatments or veneers. Below you will find more information about which one is right for you.
How do you whiten your teeth with hydrogen peroxide and Q tips? ›The Smile Daily
Interesting: never buy white strips again!: dip q-tip in hydrogen peroxide (the key ingredient in whitestrips) and apply to surface of teeth for 30 sec before brushing teeth) once a day for a few days. Teeth will look whiter in 2 days.
How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth? ›
Generally at this concentration you would need to have your teeth in contact with the 3% hydrogen peroxide for about 5 hours a day for about 2-3 weeks to have meaningful tooth whitening, which is very difficult to do with a watery liquid.
How do people get their teeth so white? ›Porcelain Veneers
These are very popular amongst celebrities because of their incredible results. Veneers are thin, strong shells that are custom-made from dental porcelain to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can fix small cracks, chips, gaps, and discoloration all at once.
For about two to six weeks, you can use dentist-recommended whitening toothpaste and brush twice a day. You can use a certified whitening mouthwash which usually takes about three months to produce visible results. Whitening strips are the most compelling in-house treatments that last up to six months.
Can I use hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth? ›Hydrogen peroxide is an inexpensive household product you probably have on hand right now. When used carefully, it can be an effective way to whiten your teeth. But if used incorrectly — in concentrations that are too high or if used too often — it can cause serious and sometimes expensive tooth damage.
What whitens teeth the fastest? ›The quickest, most dramatic way to whiten is to get an in-office bleaching at a dentist's office. Using professional-strength hydrogen peroxide and special lights or lasers, your dentist can remove even deep stains in about an hour. It'll cost you, though—probably between $500 and $1,200.
Is it OK to leave toothpaste on your teeth overnight? ›“You don't need to leave toothpaste on your teeth. The fluoride in our environment is good enough for what you want but if you have a softened enamel, you need to see a dentist to fill it up, just leaving fluoride on the surface of the teeth will not be beneficial.
Can salt whiten teeth? ›Salt acts as a surface abrasive and can definitely make teeth look whiter, but it can really damage your tooth enamel, and unfortunately once your enamel is damaged, it's damaged for life. You may have even heard of some people using charcoal to whiten their teeth.
How many times a week should I whiten my teeth with baking soda? ›Using Baking Soda Safely
The soda should ideally not be used too frequently since it can damage the enamel as a result of frequent use. It should generally only be used about once per a week and for two minutes at a time.
Because baking soda removes discoloration from the surface of your teeth, it won't remove deeper stains. According to the Mayo Clinic, toothpaste containing baking soda can help coffee and smoking stains, and it could take between two to six weeks for you to notice a difference.
Does baking soda whiten teeth instantly? ›Baking soda may help reduce the formation of tooth stains, but it can't actually whiten teeth (the same goes for whitening toothpastes).