In the vast spectrum of beauty ideals, there is one great leveller – we all want a bright, beautiful smile – and the best way to achieve this is with DIY teeth whitening that won’t cost a fortune.
“DIY teeth whitening offers you an affordable way to get rid of stained teeth. Because the truth is, the lower third of your face is the most important anti-ageing tool,” says cosmetic dentist Dr Uchenna Okoye. “If your teeth are whiter, you instantly appear younger. We invest in cleansers and moisturisers for our skin, but we don’t always look after our smile so well.
Using DIY teeth whitening tools, including an electric toothbrush is key, as well as six-monthly visits to a dental hygienist are a must. Plus, there are great whitening toothpastes – it’s like having a deep facial, then using creams to keep skin healthy.”
ALSO SEE: How to care for your teeth at every age
Try these at-home teeth whitening products
The w&h team put these DIY teeth-whitening innovations to the test, and cosmetic dental surgeon Dr Ronel Podde, and dental expert Dr Nigel Carter give their verdicts.
The product
Colgate Optic White Lasting White Toothpaste, R49,99
They say
“Contains a high-cleaning silica formula that removes surface stains from teeth and helps maintain a healthy smile; and clinically proven Optic Brighteners for an instant whitening effect. It whitens teeth from the first brush for a visibly brighter smile. Continued use provides a progressive whitening action.”
We say
“I have some discolouration on my teeth, so I’ve been using this since it launched. It tastes minty, and the slightly grainy texture helps give a better clean. There’s less discolouration and my teeth do look brighter.” Jody Scott, Art Director.
Dr Podde says
“Whitening toothpaste can take from two to six weeks to make teeth appear whiter. While it is not a tooth-bleaching agent, it does help remove stains from teeth and make them appear lighter. The cleaning particles do clean teeth quite effectively.”
The verdict
Brighten up for just R49,99!
ALSO SEE: 7 steps to beautiful teeth
The product
FOREO ISSA 2 Toothbrush, R4 769
They say
“High-intensity pulsations are channelled through the silicone bristles, generating the ideal amount of friction to effectively clean teeth and remove stains in a way that won’t scrape away enamel or irritate gums.”
We say
“I was rather sceptical as this toothbrush is very pricey, and I’m a fan of hard-bristle brushes, but the cool design and effectiveness of this toothbrush was a definite draw!
I liked the flexibility of the brush head and found that, even at full intensity, the silicone was gentle on my teeth and gums. Plus, it cleaned my teeth really well and I did notice that they were brighter and whiter.” Stacey Love, Managing Editor.
Dr Carter says
“Some abrasion from bristles is needed to remove plaque, so it’s a product developed for a problem that does not exist.”
The verdict
Maybe the science doesn’t match up on this, but it looks really cool, and it’s super if you have sensitive teeth and want a natural way to achieve whiter teeth.
ALSO SEE: Your Essential DIY Manicure Guide
The product
They say
“Liquid Smile is convenient and easy to use, with no messy trays or awkward strips. The gel, available in mint- or lemon flavour, can be painted on every night for up to two weeks for dramatic results.”
We say
“All you do is apply the gel from the applicator pen to your teeth before you go to bed, and the fast-drying formula (it takes 30 seconds to set) is only active for 15 minutes, so there is no pain or sensitivity.
There was an immediate and noticeable difference after each application, and my teeth are definitely a shade lighter after 14 days of using it.” Megan Wellman, Freelance Lifestyle Writer.
Dr Podde says
“The higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide helps to remove stains, which may make teeth appear whiter, but this is not a substitute for professional bleaching.”
The verdict
A handy, easy-to-apply quick-fix for a light brighten-up at home.
ALSO SEE: 7 health habits you’re getting wrong
The product
White Glo Diamond Whitening Kit, R274,99
They say
“It’s fast and effective. It lifts stains and yellowing – caused by the consumption of tea, coffee, red wine and food colouring, as well as by the natural ageing of tooth enamel – safely, without any abrasion.”
We say
“Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to use. Pour a little of the peroxide-based gel into the gum tray and pop it into your mouth for just five minutes. I didn’t see a difference after using it the first time, but after the sixth application, my teeth had lightened up considerably. It’s affordable, too.” Ashleigh Van Der Westhuizen, Freelance Fashion Stylist.
Dr Podde says
“The active ingredient isn’t stated, but it claims to penetrate stains and whiten discolouration embedded in the surface of the teeth. Multiple applications are needed, so while whitening may take place, it’ll only be after long-term use.”
The verdict
Perfect if you want to whiten your teeth without burning a hole in your pocket.
ALSO SEE: The Health Benefits of Buchu
