Be sure to brush the full surface area of your teeth accessible with your toothbrush; this includes the cheek side, the tongue side, and the chewing surface of your teeth. [1] X Research source Angle the toothbrush 45 degrees where your teeth meet your gums, and gently massage the toothbrush over this area to ensure it is cleaned as well. Do not press too hard here as it can be damaging. [2] X Research source Brush your teeth for two minutes.
Flossing cleans an additional 33% of tooth surface area that cannot be reached with a toothbrush alone. [3] X Research source Flossing also removes plaque before it hardens into tartar, which keeps your teeth looking cleaner and healthier. [4] X Research source For optimum flossing, take a piece of floss about 12 inches (30 cm) long and wrap it around your index finger on each hand, leaving at least 2 inches (5. 1 cm) in between. Slide it between each of your teeth, being sure to go from the top of the tooth all the way to the base. Repeat two to three times to ensure plaque is removed.
These toothpastes can lighten the color of your teeth by about one shade. In contrast, some prescription whitening techniques (ask your dentist about options that may apply to you) can lighten your teeth by about three to eight shades.
Procedures done “in-office” with your dentist are definitely more costly, but also more effective. The strength of the hydrogen peroxide solution is notably higher in the dentist’s office (and therefore more effective). The tools used to apply the solutions can be specifically designed to optimally suit your mouth and teeth shape. They will be tailored to maximize the surface area on your teeth that receives the whitening treatment, while minimizing potential damage from whitening treatments to other areas of your mouth. Your dentist will also be able to use his or her expertise to provide additional oral health suggestions specifically for you. [8] X Research source
Whitening your teeth at home without a consultation with your dentist is risky and could damage your teeth or mouth.
Use 3% hydrogen peroxide in your mixture. Hydrogen peroxide is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter teeth-whitening remedies. It functions by the process of “oxidation,” which is a chemical reaction that helps to whiten teeth.
