Colgate

WHITENING BASICS

Photo © Paul Vosdic/Iconica/Getty ImagesWhy should I whiten my teeth?

Maybe you've always wanted a beautiful white smile. Or your teeth have yellowed or stained over time. Whatever your reason for wanting whiter teeth, you're not alone.

Photo © Symphonie/Iconica/Getty ImagesAm I a candidate for tooth whitening?

Almost anyone whose permanent teeth have come in can qualify for tooth whitening. Your dentist will be able to assess your oral health and recommend the whitening method that's best for you.


Photo © Karin Dreyer/Blend Images/Getty ImagesHow does tooth whitening work?

There are many ways to whiten your teeth, from whitening toothpastes and other products that can remove many surface stains for very little cost, to dentist office treatments that cost up to $1,000 and can produce dramatic results.


Photo © Dan Dalton/Digital Vision/Getty ImagesHow do I know what shade my teeth are?

There's no one standard system in the dental field to measure and determine tooth colour. Nor is there an exact answer to how white your teeth can become-every person's situation is unique. One commonly used reference tool, however…


Photo © Caterina Bernardi/Riser/Getty ImagesHow white can my teeth get?

A change of just two or three shades can make a noticeable difference in almost anyone's smile. The goal should be to achieve your individual optimum whiteness while still looking natural.

Photo © Digital Vision/Getty ImagesWhat products for whiter teeth are available from the pharmacy?

You have a wide range of choices when it comes to whitening your teeth – from whitening toothpastes, special gels, and strips to packaged whitening systems. These over-the-counter products…

Photo © ColgateWhat products are available from my dentist for whitening?

Whitening products available from your dentist ensure the most comfortable and effective form of at-home-bleaching. Your dentist can assess your tooth whitening needs and recommend the correct system for you.

Photo © Flying Colours Ltd/Digital Vision/Getty ImagesHow safe is tooth whitening?

Over a decade of research has proven bleaching and other whitening methods to be both safe and effective. Several products in the market today have shown no adverse effects on teeth or gums in substantial clinical and laboratory testing.

Photo © Stockbyte/Getty ImagesHow do I maintain my newly whitened smile?

Over time, exposure to foods, drinks (especially coffee, tea, colas and red wine) and tobacco will gradually darken your newly whitened teeth. But there are steps you can take to maintain your pearly white smile.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Photo © Leland Bobbe/The Image Bank/Getty ImagesImproving my smile (tooth whitening and bonding)

Some people are born with teeth that are more yellow than others. Others have teeth that yellow with age. Your natural tooth colour can also be affected by many factors.

Photo © Karen Moscovitz/Image Bank/Getty ImagesDental office whitening treatments in just one visit

Almost anyone whose permanent teeth have come in can qualify for tooth whitening. Your dentist will be able to assess your oral health and recommend the whitening method that's best for you.

Photo © Kay Blaschke/Stock4B/Getty ImagesAre there other alternatives for improving my smile?

Not everyone is a candidate for whitening. You may want to investigate other options, like veneers or bonding. Your dentist can tell you which alternative is best for you.

FOR THE PROFESSIONAL

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Information on the latest dental products and the latest clinical studies for dental professionals and students.