Google social media icon Facebook social media icon Instagram social media icon Healthgrades icon Make a Payment Schedule Online
Elite Dental of Natick
All Your Dental Needs.
All Under One Roof.

What Options Are Available for Dental Bleaching or Teeth Whitening?
Posted on 6/16/2025 by Elite Dental of Natick
A smiling man wearing a white t-shirt, displaying his bright white teeth after a dental procedure. A bright, white smile can boost your confidence and make you feel more attractive. If you're unhappy with the color of your teeth, you're not alone. Many people struggle with stained or discolored teeth due to various factors, including:
•  Food and drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables can stain your teeth.
•  Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause significant staining and discoloration.
•  Medications: Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause tooth discoloration.
•  Aging: As we age, the outer layer of our teeth (enamel) thins, revealing the yellowish inner layer (dentin).
•  Trauma: Injuries to the teeth can cause internal bleeding, leading to discoloration.

Fortunately, several options are available to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile. Let's explore some of the most popular methods:

Professional Teeth Whitening


Professional teeth whitening is performed by a dentist in their office. This method is considered the safest and most effective way to whiten your teeth. Your dentist will use a high-concentration bleaching gel to remove stains and brighten your smile. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, and you will see immediate results.

Take-Home Whitening Kits


Take-home whitening kits are available from your dentist or over-the-counter. These kits typically contain a bleaching gel and custom-fitted trays that you wear for a specific period each day. The results are not as immediate as in-office whitening, but they are still noticeable. It can take several weeks to achieve your desired level of whiteness.

Whitening Toothpastes and Mouthwashes


Whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes contain mild abrasives and chemicals that can help remove surface stains. These products are not as effective as professional or take-home whitening methods, but they can help maintain the results of professional whitening or gradually brighten your smile over time.

Natural Teeth Whitening Methods


Some people prefer natural methods for teeth whitening. Popular options include:
•  Baking soda: Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove surface stains. However, it's important to use it sparingly, as it can damage your enamel.
•  Hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that can lighten teeth. However, it can also irritate your gums, so it's important to use it with caution.
•  Fruit enzymes: Certain fruits, such as strawberries and pineapple, contain enzymes that can help break down stains. You can mash these fruits and apply them to your teeth for a short period.

Choosing the Right Option


The best teeth whitening option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
•  Severity of staining: If you have significant staining, professional teeth whitening may be the best option.
•  Sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth, you may want to avoid using abrasive whitening methods.
•  Budget: Professional teeth whitening is the most expensive option, while natural methods are the least expensive.
•  Time commitment: In-office whitening is the quickest option, while take-home whitening kits require more time.

It's important to talk to your dentist about your teeth whitening goals and concerns. They can help you choose the safest and most effective method for your individual needs.

Modern and Fully
Digital Office

Dental exam room at Elite Dental of Natick in Natick, MA

Learn More

Meet
Our Doctors

Dr. Bethany Polnar at Elite Dental of Natick in Natick, MA

Learn More

Meet
Our Team

Team members at Elite Dental of Natick in Natick, MA

Learn More

Let's Talk About Your Teeth



Schedule Online
or Call (508) 319-9339
Elite Dental of Natick
All Your Dental Needs.
All Under One Roof.

Elite Dental of Natick


232 Pond St.
Natick, MA 01760-4376

Phone


(508) 319-9339

Email


info@elitedentalofnatick.com

Hours


Mon
Tue
Wed
Thurs
Fri
Sat
Sun
8:00am - 5:00pm
8:00am - 6:00pm
8:00am - 5:00pm
8:00am - 5:00pm
8:00am - 5:00pm
Closed
Closed
Google social media icon Facebook social media icon Instagram social media icon Healthgrades icon
Make a Payment
Schedule Online
Copyright © 2019-2025 Elite Dental of Natick and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap
Dentist Natick, MA | Elite Dental of Natick
Above all else, we here at Elite Dental of Natick want our dental patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Call us today to schedule an appointment!
Elite Dental of Natick, 232 Pond St., Natick, MA 01760; (508) 319-9339; elitedentalofnatick.com; 7/16/2025; Page Phrases: Dentist Natick MA;