Beyond the brush: Instant teeth whitening at home

If you're concerned about stains on your teeth or are unhappy with discoloration caused by alcohol, smoking, or other products, it might be time to do something about it.

One option is an instant teeth whitening product. You can opt for a foam, a pen, or a strip. But do these products really work?

Here, we go beyond the brush and introduce you to some instant teeth whitening products that you can use at home. We also reveal some top tips that will help you to improve your long-term dental hygiene.

3 teeth whitening options

If you're looking to make your teeth whiter, there are three main options available to you:

1. An instant teeth whitening treatment at your dentist. This is typically the method that achieves the best results, though it is also the most expensive.

2. Instant teeth whitening kits that you can use at home. These over-the-counter treatments are much more affordable than booking an appointment with a dentist. Though not as effective, they can achieve positive results for your teeth when used correctly.

3. Simple changes that lead to long-term benefits. Switching to an automatic toothbrush, using a whitening toothpaste, and anti-bacterial mouthwash can all help to make your teeth brighter in the long run. Avoiding products that stain your teeth is another helpful step for long-term dental hygiene.

Given the cost associated with option one, most people go for a combination of options two and three. But do teeth whitening products actually work? Let's take a look.

Do instant teeth whitening products work?

Instant teeth whitening products can make a big difference to your smile. At-home products like strips, gels, foams, and pens are widely available over the counter and can be effective when applied correctly.

The majority of at-home instant whitening products contain a formula consisting of hydrogen peroxide. This is a natural bleaching agent that breaks down molecules that cause discoloration (coffee, tea, etc.) and works to restore your teeth to a shimmering white.

For these products to work, you need to use them consistently, usually over the course of a few weeks. The best instant teeth whitening products for at-home use include:

1. Instant teeth whitening foam

There are lots of over-the-counter foams that can help to whiten your teeth. When applied, these foams can clean tartar, repair gums, and help with bad breath. Foams typically need to be used long-term alongside other products, like whitening paste and an electric toothbrush.

Pros

✅ Affordable and easily available online

✅ Can tackle tartar and deep stains

Cons

❌ Daily use is required for long-term results

2. Instant teeth whitening pen

Teeth whitening pens are another popular option for people looking to whiten their teeth at home. They work similarly to foams but help with targeted applications.

Whitening pens are affordable and suitable for long-term use, offering a viable option as a DIY instant whitening solution.

Pros

✅ Instant teeth whitening pens are easy to use and deliver fast results

✅ The results are positive in the short-term

Cons

❌ Can lead to gum irritation and sensitivity

3. Instant teeth whitening strips

Another cost-effective DIY solution is teeth whitening strips that you can order online or buy in your local drug store. Though slightly more expensive than pens, whitening strips are easy to apply and are a super popular option. You can leave them on for 10-30 minutes for the results that you desire.

Pros

✅ Whitening strips are one of the best budget-friendly options

✅ They deliver quick results and can increase the brightness of your teeth in a few days

Cons

❌ If you use whitening strips for too long, they can weaken your enamel

Homemade instant teeth whitening tips

Instant teeth whitening at home is certainly possible. But here are some tips you should bear in mind to achieve the best possible results, regardless of the product that you use:

• Make sure you use products that are ADA-approved, as teeth whitening kits contain bleach that must be verified as safe for use.

• Always follow the instructions on the product that you use, and don't leave the strips or foam on your teeth for too long.

• If you feel added sensitivity in your teeth after using a whitening kit, stop using it and visit your dentist for a check-up.

• Make sure you care for your teeth - avoid products that stain your teeth, brush and floss regularly, and use mouthwash every day.

Improve your dental hygiene with an automatic toothbrush

As you now know, at-home teeth whitening kits can be effective, whether you use a foam, pen, or strips. However, with your dental hygiene, prevention is always better than cure.

If your teeth are stained, you should take steps to look after them better. Avoid excessive amounts of red wine, coffee, sodas, and tea, as these can lead to discoloration.

Also, improve the way that you clean your teeth. Switching to an automatic toothbrush, such as the Laifen Wave, is such a simple yet effective way of cleaning your teeth well.

Electric toothbrushes are so much more effective than manual brushes and can help to remove stains and keep your teeth white.

You can also switch to a whitening toothpaste that you use each day. This, coupled with an automatic toothbrush, can have a big impact on the brightness of your teeth, and may prevent you from having to use whitening products in the future.

FAQ

Q1: Is teeth whitening instant?

Most teeth whitening products take between a few hours and a few days to work properly - it depends on the product that you use. Always read the instructions so you know when to expect results.

Q2: Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes, teeth whitening is safe. However, you should make sure to use an ADA-approved product. If you're unsure, consult a dentist or a dental hygienist for advice.

Q3: Do teeth whitening products really work?

Yes, when used correctly, at-home teeth whitening products can be effective. Though they won't necessarily deliver long-term results, they can brighten your teeth and give you confidence in your smile.