Having a healthy-looking, brilliant smile can take years off of your appearance. Because of wear and tear, the aging process, and lifestyle choices that we make can all take a toll on the color of our teeth. Many Americans have opted to select one of the many options available for teeth whitening.

This is actually less harmful to your teeth than commercially available whitening strips. Take a swig of hydrogen peroxide without swallowing it, and then swish it about in your mouth before spitting it out. Do this a few times a week.

When whitening your teeth, you'll find that you get the best results if your teeth are yellowing. You'll get medium grade results if your teeth are brown. If your teeth are grey, you'll get the least results. Keep this in mind when you're shelling out money to whiten your teeth.

To avoid unnecessary pain, people with sensitive teeth should consult a dental professional to find the best possible whitening product. Since most take home teeth whitening products are not made for sensitive teeth, it is important that you consult a professional before applying an irritant to your own sensitive teeth. They can direct you to the most effective and pain-free whitening solution.

Going to a dentist and paying to have your teeth bleached is very effective. Bleaching solution is applied to the teeth and it stays there for about an hour. Do not worry about taste or burns because they take precautions to prevent this from happening to you. Results can usually be seen after just one session.

Ask your dentist about the different teeth whitening options available to you. Some dentists may recommend a procedure that they provide in their office. Some may refer you to a certain product that you can find at your local pharmacy. Some may simply suggest that you brush your teeth more often.

Use a straw when drinking highly acidic beverages, such as sodas or citrus juices. Using a straw will help divert the acid away from your teeth, into your mouth, which can keep it from causing damage to your teeth. Gray teeth are often caused by thinning tooth enamel, so protecting your tooth enamel will keep your teeth whiter.

Whether you choose to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home, or as you relax at the dentist's office, you will no doubt be pleased with the results! A tremendous amount of what we look like has to do with our smile, so go treat yourself!