Does Whitening Toothpaste Work?

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The term “whitens teeth” is almost ubiquitous on toothpaste tubes. Some, of course, contain ingredients like peroxide, baking soda, or activated charcoal that provide some legitimacy to the claim, but the truth is, any toothpaste that can, with consistent use, help reduce topical stains can claim to “whiten teeth.” That’s pretty much every type of toothpaste on the market.

Not to be dismissive. Indeed, some whitening toothpaste can lighten teeth a few shades over the course of several weeks. But if you are dealing with severe stains or more progressive discoloration, you are not likely to get optimal results with toothpaste alone. Not even if you add in a whitening mouthwash.

Professional Options for Reliable Results

The best way to ensure reliable teeth whitening results is through professional services. This includes regularly scheduled visits where your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and polished, but can also include cosmetic treatments designed specifically to eliminate stains.

At Warr Dental, we offer the Zoom!® tooth whitening system for in-office teeth whitening. With this option, teeth can be lightened several shades over the course of one hour. Zoom!® is designed for gentle whitening and, when applied and overseen by trained dental professionals, risks for sensitivity and irritation can be reduced significantly, making it a better option than store-bought alternatives.

When stains are deep or severe, it may be best to look to cosmetic options such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding. Topical whiteners cannot always treat deep tooth stains, though they can be used in conjunction with cosmetic restorations to help produce a consistently bright and attractive smile. During your complimentary cosmetic dentistry evaluation at our Salt Lake City office, we will carefully assess your teeth to determine which treatment – or combination of treatments – will be best for your specific concerns.

Contact Us Today to Learn More

If you are looking for the most effective teeth whitening options, call Warr Dental at 801-355-5385 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry evaluation today. Located in Salt Lake City, our experienced dentists welcome patients from Provo, Park City, West Valley City, and surrounding Utah communities.