Transform your smile with the top 5 ways to whiten teeth! Get rid of yellowing and stains, and show off a dazzling white smile. From whitening pens, strips, toothpastes, and more, you can find the best whitening product to suit your needs. 

The 5 best ways to whiten teeth are whitening strips, whitening pens, whitening toothpastes, professional in-office whitening, and take-home whitening kits.

Don't wait any longer to get the smile you've always dreamed of! With the right whitening product, you can achieve a beautiful, white smile in no time. Visit Zimba to explore our collection of teeth-whitening products and start your journey to a brighter, more radiant smile today.

What Is Teeth Discoloration?

Teeth discoloration is the term used to describe any change in the color of your teeth. It can range from slight yellowing to deep brown or gray stains. It can be caused by various factors, including aging, genetics, certain foods and drinks, and poor dental hygiene. Teeth discoloration can be classified as either extrinsic or intrinsic. 

Extrinsic discoloration is caused by external factors, such as food and drink, smoking, and certain medications. Intrinsic discoloration is caused by internal factors, such as trauma, aging, and genetics. Other causes of teeth discoloration include tartar and calculus buildup, dental fluorosis, and poor oral health habits.

Causes Of Teeth Discoloration

Teeth discoloration is a common and natural occurrence, but there are a few factors that can contribute to the discoloration of your teeth. Some of the most common causes of teeth discoloration include:

• Food and Drink: Teeth discoloration can be caused by certain types of food and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda. These foods and drinks contain tannins, which can cause staining to the enamel of your teeth.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes or cigars can cause teeth discoloration. The tar and nicotine in cigarettes and cigars can cause yellowing and staining of the teeth.
• Age: As we age, the enamel on our teeth begins to wear away, revealing the dentin underneath. The dentin is naturally yellow, so this can cause teeth to appear more yellow or discolored.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as tetracycline and doxycycline, can cause teeth discoloration. These medications can cause the enamel to develop a yellow or brownish hue.
• Trauma: Trauma to the teeth can cause discoloration. This can occur if the enamel is cracked or chipped, or if the dentin is exposed.
• Genetics: Genetics can also play a role in teeth discoloration. Some people are born with naturally yellow or discolored teeth.

Types Of Teeth Stains

Teeth stains can be classified into two main categories: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are those that form on the surface of the teeth. Intrinsic stains are those that form on the inner layers of the teeth, and are usually caused by aging, trauma, or certain medical conditions. 

Extrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains can be caused by consuming certain foods and drinks as well as smoking and using other forms of tobacco. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to extrinsic stains, as plaque and tartar buildup can cause discoloration. 

Fortunately, extrinsic stains are the easiest to remove, as they are only found on the outer surface of the teeth. 

Intrinsic Stains

Intrinsic stains can be caused by certain medications, such as tetracycline, or excessive fluoride intake. Other causes of intrinsic stains include trauma or injury, aging, and genetics.

Intrinsic stains are often yellow or brown in color, but can also be gray or black. These stains are usually not affected by over-the-counter whitening products, and may require professional whitening treatments.

Tartar And Calculus

Tartar, also known as dental plaque, is a yellowish-brown deposit that forms on the surface of teeth. It is caused by bacteria that accumulate on the teeth and harden over time. Calculus, on the other hand, is a more severe form of tartar that is harder and more difficult to remove. It is formed when tartar accumulates and is not removed regularly.

Tartar and calculus can be removed by professional dental cleaning. During this process, the dentist will use special tools to remove the build-up of tartar and calculus from the teeth. 

Dental Fluorosis

Dental fluorosis is a condition that causes discoloration of the teeth, usually due to overexposure to fluoride during the tooth formation years. It is characterized by white spots or streaks on the enamel surface of the teeth. 

To prevent dental fluorosis, limit exposure to fluoride. This can be done by avoiding drinking water with high levels of fluoride, using fluoride-free toothpaste, and avoiding certain foods that contain fluoride.

How To Identify The Severity Of Teeth Discoloration

Identify the type and severity of discoloration in order to determine the best course of treatment. Here are some tips to help you identify the severity of teeth discoloration:

1. Look at the color of your teeth: If your teeth are yellow or brown, this could be a sign of extrinsic discoloration.  If your teeth are gray or blue, this could be a sign of intrinsic discoloration.
2. Check your gums: If your gums are swollen or red, this could be a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease, both of which can lead to discoloration.
3. Look for signs of tartar and calculus: Any yellow or brown deposits on your teeth could be a sign of tartar and calculus.
4. Check for signs of dental fluorosis: White streaks or spots on your teeth could be a sign of dental fluorosis.
5. Consult your dentist: If you are still unsure about the severity of your teeth discoloration, it is best to consult your dentist. Your dentist can examine your teeth and recommend the best treatment for your specific case.

5 Best Ways To Whiten Teeth

Teeth-whitening can be done professionally or at home with plenty of products to choose from. Here are some of the best ways to whiten teeth:

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are one of the most popular and convenient methods of teeth whitening. They are thin, flexible strips coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. The strips are applied directly to the teeth and left on for a specified amount of time, usually 30 minutes. 

Whitening Pens

Whitening pens contain a whitening gel that is applied directly to the teeth, which helps to remove surface stains and brighten the smile.

The whitening gel in the pens is typically a hydrogen peroxide-based solution that is applied directly to the teeth. The gel is typically left on the teeth for a few minutes before being rinsed off. 

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste works by gently removing surface stains and discoloration from the teeth. It contains special abrasives and chemicals that help to break down the stain particles and make them less visible.

Most whitening toothpastes contain hydrogen peroxide as the main active ingredient. This chemical helps to break down the discoloration on the teeth and make them appear brighter.

Professional In-Office Whitening

This type of whitening treatment is done in a dental office and involves the use of a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, to break down the stains on the teeth. The dentist will apply the bleaching agent directly to the teeth and then use a special light or laser to activate the whitening process. 

Professional in-office whitening can provide results in as little as one appointment, with the effects lasting for up to several years. The main benefit is that it is fast and effective. It is also a safe and reliable way to whiten teeth and can be tailored to the individual's needs. 

Take-Home Whitening Kits

Take-home whitening kits are an effective and convenient way to whiten teeth from the comfort of your home. These kits usually come with a whitening gel that you apply to your teeth and a customized tray that fits your mouth perfectly. The tray is designed to hold the whitening gel in place and help it penetrate the enamel of your teeth.

Take-home whitening kits can be used daily for up to two weeks, depending on the instructions provided by the manufacturer and the severity of your teeth discoloration.

 

Tips On Selecting The Best Teeth Whitening Product

When it comes to selecting the best teeth whitening product, there are a few things to consider. Let’s go dig into that:

Check The Ingredients

When selecting a teeth whitening product, check the ingredients. Different products contain different ingredients, and the concentration of these ingredients can vary. Some of the most common ingredients used in teeth-whitening products are hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium chloride. 

Read Reviews

Reviews can provide insights into the effectiveness of the product, the ingredients used, and the overall customer experience. Additionally, reviews can help you identify any potential side effects that the product may have.

When browsing reviews, consider looking for feedback from customers who have had similar teeth discoloration issues to yours. 

Consider Sensitivity

Teeth whitening products use bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to remove the discoloration from teeth. In some cases, these agents can be harsh on the teeth and gums, causing discomfort or even pain. For those with sensitive teeth, select a product that is specifically designed for sensitive teeth. 

Choose Professional Products

Professional products are designed to be stronger and more effective than those sold in stores, and they are often specifically formulated for each individual's needs. Professional products are also monitored by dental professionals, so you can be sure that you're getting a safe and effective whitening solution. 

Ask Your Dentist

Your dentist can assess the level of discoloration and recommend the most suitable whitening product for your particular needs. They can also advise on the best way to use the product and any precautions you should take to protect your teeth from damage.

Your dentist can also help you identify any underlying medical issues causing your discoloration. For example, if you have a dental infection, they can provide treatment and advise you on how to prevent future discoloration.

Don't Wait Any Longer To Get The Smile You've Always Dreamed Of!

There are a variety of teeth whitening products available that you can use to get the dazzling white smile you've always wanted.

Discover the benefits of teeth whitening and start feeling confident today! Click here to shop Zimba now.

Final Thoughts

Having a bright, white smile can make a huge difference in your confidence and self-esteem. Fortunately, there are many ways to whiten your teeth, from convenient whitening pens and strips to professional in-office whitening. 

Before you decide on a whitening product, consider the severity of your teeth discoloration and the type of stains you have. You'll also want to check the ingredients, read reviews, and consider any potential sensitivity before selecting the best teeth-whitening product.

Want to achieve that perfect smile you’ve been dreaming of?  Check out more of our teeth whitening products and see which fits your needs best.

For questions on using our products, or a new or existing order, contact us.

FAQs

Can yellow teeth become white again?

Yes, it is possible to whiten yellow teeth. There are several ways to whiten teeth, such as whitening strips, whitening pens, whitening toothpaste, professional in-office whitening, and take-home whitening kits.

How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth?

The amount of time it takes for hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth depends on the concentration of the product and the type of discoloration. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to see results.

Do whitening pens really whiten your teeth?

Yes, whitening pens can help to whiten teeth. These products contain active ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, and sodium chlorite, which help to break down stains and discoloration on the surface of the teeth.

How long do you leave the teeth whitening pen on?

The amount of time you leave the teeth whitening pen on depends on the product you are using. Generally, it is recommended to leave the pen on for no more than 10 minutes. 

Can I use a whitening pen every day?

It is not recommended to use a whitening pen every day. Overuse of these products can cause irritation to the gums and teeth.