An Overview Of How To Beat High Teeth Whitening Costs

Teeth whitening costs - especially these days - are high enough to deter some people from their goal of having that beautiful white smile. And, at almost $500 for the complete treatment, unless you're a dentist - or married to one - you probably don't have the extra funds lying around to even think about it. And furthermore, everyone knows that this service isn't covered under most dental policies. So, are there things you can do to whiten your teeth, that you can actually afford? Well, yes! And here is a short list for you:

Over the counter products - You can choose from many brands of tooth whitener these days - and the prices vary. You can go really cheap, and in this case the paint-on gel sells for under $10 - so it's pretty affordable. However, cheap isn't always synonymous with quality.

In addition to being the weakest link in the store-bought whitening category, it also falls into the "not convenient to apply" category. Things like gel that collects and thickens on some teeth, yet slides off others, is a common problem reported by consumers. But the biggest complaint is, the product doesn't really make that much of a difference in the way your teeth look - and it leaves a disgusting taste in your mouth, as well.

Whitening strips - Many people have found the strip to be effective enough that they use it exclusively for their whitening needs - however, depending on what brand you buy, one kit can be as high as $27 a box. Then, you have to memorize which strip goes on the upper, and which one goes on the lower set of teeth. But, after you get the routine down, you can plan on relaxing for the 10 minutes it takes for the strips to do the bleaching work.

Although slightly better tasting that the paint brush gel product, the flavor of the strips still isn't anything to write home about - so be prepared for more unpleasant tastes. And, for those who are interested, there are some strips made with a "flavor" base, that the manufacturer says will bleach your teeth, then conveniently dissolve away to nothing in your mouth. However, it doesn't happen quite like it does in the commercials - which promote things in a much too easy-breezy way to be true. Instead, many times the product will gunk up as it's dissolving, and then form a glue-like mass on some of your teeth. However the important thing is, by following the directions in using the whitening strip, you should start to notice quite a difference in the color of your teeth, in a very short time.

Natural alternatives - There are even some ways to shine up those choppers, courtesy of Mother Nature herself. Baking soda, salt and a dip of hydrogen peroxide on your toothbrush, not only cleans your teeth wonderfully, but will start to whiten them with continued use - although the process is slower than that of the over-the-counter products. And, the taste of the baking soda is NOT pleasant. Another snafu is if you tend to brush your teeth too hard as a habit, you could start to wear away your enamel with the baking soda's abrasive properties.

And there's even a aromatic way to spit shine those pearly's - just rub each tooth down with the inside of an orange peel. This is said to work amazingly fast, however, you can damage your teeth if you're not careful - as citrus contains acids that wear the enamel down. So, if you are going to use this system, make sure after you "rub", you "rinse" really well.

So, now you're in "the know" about a few ways to get around the high teeth whitening costs. Maybe you'll be lucky, and one of these ways will work to whiten your teeth to your satisfaction. And, if you want even more information about the whitening process - and more suggestions regarding affordable alternatives - then hop on the internet and see what you can find.

Laser Teeth Whitening Guide

There are several different factors that will impact the color of your teeth. Habits such as drinking dark colored drinks such as coffee, sodas, and red wine cause staining, just as smoking does. Many individuals turn to whitening toothpaste, and although this may help slightly, it doesn't have the same effects as a laser teeth whitening procedures. People who are looking for whiter and brighter smiles are turning to this procedure for a dramatic change to the color of their teeth.

Well, a gel with whitening agents is placed in a tray to fit over the shape of your teeth. Once the tray is in place the gel begins to take action. The different substances begin to break down and start bleaching the colored areas of the teeth. The teeth are not damaged through the process, and other cavity fillings or bonding will not change color. The substance only works on enamel.

Many people ask about the safety of this procedure. This is a low risk, convenient and very common procedure. A common outcome for such a dental routine will be teeth 2-5 shades lighter than the original color.

What's the difference between a laser treatment, and a regular tray whitening system without the laser? The major difference between both is the fact one is faster than the other. The laser applied to the tray will quicken the results, whereas you'll have much slower results with an ordinary tray.

The long-lasting impact of the laser treatment depends on how you maintain your teeth. When you avoid dark liquids such as red wine, coffee and sodas you can keep your brighter smile for longer. Also ask your dentist for recommended touch-ups.

Why do people turn to teeth whitening? Simply because they want to look better and have more self-confidence. The effects of aging are reduced with a whiter smile. This will give you a more youthful and energetic look. A bright smile means you care about your appearance. It also tells people that you are friendly and care about your health.

Are there any disadvantages associated with procedure? There are only short term disadvantages like mild discomfort. You may experience mild discomfort while sitting through the laser teeth whitening procedure, but usually disappears after the treatment is over. Your teeth may also feel a bit sensitive to hot or cold drinks in the few days after the procedure.