No matter how conscientiously you brush and floss, you may fall short of the bright, white smile you’re after. Every day, our teeth face stains from what we eat and drink, from sodas, coffee and tea to dark fruits and vegetables.  Professional teeth whitening and at-home whitening products can reverse stain damage for a brighter, confident smile. 
Follow these tips from SNOW on the pros and cons of available whitening methods — so you can make an informed decision if you opt to lighten up your smile. 
 
Benefits of Teeth Whitening
A whiter smile can help you feel more confident and self-assured. Some teeth whitening products can also boost oral health by strengthening teeth enamel, the outer layer of your teeth that helps prevent cavities.
Many whitening products promise quick results, with noticeable whitening in just a few applications. Plus, the wide array of dental whitening products on the market — from toothpaste and strips to pens and LED kits — means it’s easy to find one to fit most everyone’s time frame and budget.

Risks & Considerations
Before diving into a new tooth whitening routine, read the product package carefully and/or discuss its application with your dentist. It’s important to understand the potential for any whitening product risks, including: 

• Oral Sensitivity: Whitening may cause temporary tooth sensitivity, especially if you have pre-existing dental conditions.

• Gum Irritation: Some treatments may lead to mild gum irritation if not applied correctly.

• Enamel Damage: Improper or over-use of whitening products can lead to tooth enamel erosion.

• Allergic Reactions: While rare, some people experience swelling or other allergic sensitivity to certain whitening product ingredients.

• Uneven Results: Individuals with dental restorations like crowns or veneers may find their natural and repaired teeth respond differently to whitening products.

Pros and Cons of Professional Whitening 
Some professional whitening processes deliver a noticeably whiter smile after just one application. In-office procedures typically incorporate much stronger bleaching agents than what is available in at-home products. As a result, they tend to deliver fast, long-lasting results.

The expense of in-office teeth whitening can be prohibitive, though. Professional whitening can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on the service.

Pros and Cons of At-Home Whitening 
Most at-home whitening products are affordably priced. Some whitening toothpastes and strips cost only a few dollars or less per use. At-home products are also easy and convenient to use when your schedule permits.

However, because they must use lower concentrations of bleaching ingredients, at-home whitening products may require multiple or consistent applications to achieve noticeable results. 

Whitening Best Practices 
Plan to consult your dentist before starting any whitening treatments, especially if you have pre-existing dental conditions. Whatever method of teeth whitening you choose, follow packaging instructions carefully to avoid damage from product misuse or overuse. When done properly, teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to enhance your smile and boost self-confidence.