### Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know Everyone loves a dazzling smile, which is why many people turn to teeth whiteners when their teeth start to look yellow. Common foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and berries, as well as smoking, can stain teeth and make them lose their brightness. As we age, the effects of these stains can become more pronounced. Teeth whiteners, whether bought over-the-counter (OTC) or from a dentist, use a form of peroxide to oxidize or break down the color particles on your teeth. Store-bought kits usually contain 3% to 10% peroxide, while professional-grade whiteners can have up to 40% peroxide. Professional whiteners are generally more effective because they use higher concentrations of peroxide and come with custom-made trays that fit your mouth perfectly. These trays keep the bleaching solution in close contact with your teeth, enhancing the whitening effect and minimizing the risk of gum irritation or swallowing the solution. However, professional whitening can be expensive, ranging from $400 to $800, compared to $25 to $100 for OTC products. OTC whiteners can still be a good option. Whitening strips are particularly effective because they adhere well to the teeth, especially the top ones, allowing the gel to penetrate the enamel. However, it's important to manage your expectations. You can usually achieve a color change of two to three shades lighter than your current color. Overdoing it can harm your tooth structure, making them appear translucent or even blue or gray. Here are some precautions to take when whitening your teeth: - **Beware of Sensitivity:** Tooth and gum sensitivity is a common side effect. Avoid using the strongest and fastest solutions as they come with more side effects. - **Watch Bonding and Veneers:** If you have bonding or veneers, whiten your teeth before getting dental work done or skip whitening altogether. These materials don't respond to bleaching agents and will stay the same color while your natural teeth lighten, leading to a multicolored smile. - **Choose Whitening Strips:** OTC whitening strips are better than store-bought trays, which tend to be loose and less effective. - **Skip Whiteners if You Have Gum Disease:** Whiteners can accelerate gum deterioration, so consult your dentist for alternative ways to brighten your smile. Remember, everything in moderation for a safe and effective whitening experience.