Colgate Your Partner in Oral Health

WHITENING BASICS

Photo © Paul Vosdic/Iconica/Getty ImagesWhy should I whiten my teeth?

Maybe you've always wanted a beautiful white smile. Or your teeth have yellowed over time. Or you're not happy with the staining that may result from drinking coffee, tea, or cola.

Photo © Symphonie/Iconica/Getty ImagesAm I a candidate for tooth whitening?

Almost anyone with natural permanent teeth can qualify for tooth whitening. Your dentist will be able to assess your oral health and recommend the whitening method that's best for you.


Photo © Karin Dreyer/Blend Images/Getty ImagesHow does tooth whitening work?

There are many ways to whiten your teeth - from whitening toothpastes and other products that can remove surface stains, to light-activated whitening techniques in a dentist's office that can produce dramatic results.

Photo © Stockbyte/Getty ImagesHow do I maintain my newly whitened smile?

Over time, exposure to foods, drinks (especially coffee, tea, and red wine) and tobacco will gradually darken your newly whitened teeth. But there are steps you can take to maintain your pearly white smile.

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COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Photo © Leland Bobbe/The Image Bank/Getty ImagesImproving my smile (tooth whitening and bonding)

Some people are born with teeth that are more yellow than others. Others have teeth that yellow with age. Your natural tooth colour can also be affected by many factors.

Photo © Kay Blaschke/Stock4B/Getty ImagesAre there other alternatives for improving my smile?

Not everyone is a candidate for whitening. Bleaching is not recommended if you have tooth-coloured fillings, crowns, caps or bonding in your front teeth - the bleach will not change the colour of these materials, making them stand out...

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FOR THE PROFESSIONAL

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Information on the latest dental products and latest clinical studies for dental professionals and students from Colgate Professional.