at Riverside Dental Group will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about teeth whitening options.

Teeth Whitening FAQs

Q1. Do whitening toothpastes work?

A1. Usually only slightly. The whitening agents added to toothpastes that promise whitening may clean some stains from teeth. However, the best you can really hope for would be making your teeth about one shade lighter.

Q2. I have heard that baking soda makes a great (and inexpensive) homemade teeth whitening solution. Is it safe?

A2. Brushing your teeth with a pea-sized amount of baking soda that has been mixed with a few drops of water can give you a small brightening boost. However, just as with whitening toothpastes, your results will be subtle at best. Be careful not to overdo baking soda. Once a week or less should be the rule, so the abrasives don’t damage your tooth enamel.

Q3. Do at-home whitening trays and bleaching gels work?

A3. Well, some do. We recommend going through your Woodcrest dentists to ensure that the product you are getting is of the highest quality and power. The trays will be customized to your teeth, allowing more direct contact to all of your teeth. These kits will usually show significant whitening (multiple shades) in about two weeks of daily 30 minute, self-administered treatment.

Teeth Whitening from Woodcrest Dentists

Make an appointment with your Woodcrest dentists to find out if you are a candidate for teeth whitening. If you have worn enamel, dental cavities, or gum disease, teeth whitening may not be recommended until those problems are treated. Also, teeth whitening will not work on dental crowns or other dental restorations, so be prepared that your dentist may recommend another option such as veneers or bonding. Call our 92504 dentist office at (951) 689-5031 for teeth whitening and all of your dental care needs.