Until just recently those with little or no money available for tooth whitening treatments at a dentists' office had no other choice but to accept the yellow and brown discoloration of their teeth; discoloration caused by their diet, smoking habits, use of antibiotics, and even their age. But in this day and age, for a price of around $30 or less, these same people can also have a white smile similar to one they would receive from a visit to the dentist.

However, there is still one challenge, one hurdle if you will, that must be overcome before that bright smile can be had, and that is deciding on what sort of treatment to buy.

Whitening Toothpastes

The difference between tooth whitening toothpastes and regular toothpastes is that the former contain polishing agents which are specially engineered to remove deep staining from teeth. However, though they are a convenient way of obtaining a whiter smile, they do not work as quickly, and they are also not as effective as the other option that is available on the market – tooth whitening systems.

Tooth Whitening Systems

Tooth whitening systems are similar to what is commonly used by dentists in their offices. Thanks to products such as Zoom and Britesmile though, dentists no longer hold a monopoly on tooth whitening treatments. Though these at-home systems are not as potent as those used in dentist offices, they are still very effective, and you will more than likely have a difficult time seeing a difference.

In general, most tooth whitening systems contain similar components, regardless of the manufacturer. Most contain a whitening gel, as well as a mouth tray. The composition of the gel might change a little from one brand to the next, but the main ingredient in them all is either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

Tooth whitening systems are used by applying the gel to the mouth tray and inserting the tray into your mouth for a period of time, which will vary from one brand to the next. That's it. Seems too good to be true right? Well, it really isn't. Tooth whitening is no more involved than that, which I'm sure makes you wonder why people are still willing to pay a dentist hundreds of dollars for a service they can do themselves, right?

Since most whitening toothpastes and whitening systems are essentially the same, what will most likely settle your decision will be price or name brand. This will have to be a decision you make for yourself based on your own financial and personal needs. Whichever you choose, feel comfortable knowing that your decision to whiten your teeth is a good one, one free from the worry of harmful side effects (a rarity in the medical and dental fields today).

Having a beautiful smile is a great feeling. If you have yellowish or brown discoloration on your teeth, then take advantage of the affordable tooth whitening technology available.