Pro-Level, At-Home, Teeth Whitening: A Convenient, Cost Effective Method That Has Kept My Smile Glistening for Over 20 Years!

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Looking for a brighter, whiter smile as you age?  It’s no secret that having bright white teeth contributes to a more youthful appearance.  I am proud of my age,  I am ok being 52, but I am also all about incorporating non-invasive, cost effective habits to protect any youthful appearance that remains.  I have written previously about teeth whitening - but never have I fully detailed my routine.  

This came up when recently, over coffee, I was asked how I do it.  The individual explained that she experienced sensitivity after a few whitening treatments.  The lightbulb went off…I have encouraged so many friends and family to test the wonders of whitening strips.  I always point out how cost effective and convenient they are compared to in-office treatments.  But, I have never fully explained exactly what I do at home.  

I have been using Crest products for teeth whitening since the late 1990s. There are other brands that may be effective, but Crest has never let me down over the last 20+ years.  (I am not affiliated with Crest)  So, I am sticking with it.  Along the way, I too, experienced sensitive teeth.  That was until a dentist friend told me about using a toothpaste for sensitivity.  I will explain in more detail shortly.  First, the conversation about sensitive teeth.  The same individual asked how I keep from staining my teeth in between whitening treatments since I only do them twice per year.  This caused me to outline my full routine just as I will do now.  There is a fabulous toothpaste and mouthwash for daily use.  Additionally, a serum is available for touch-ups after having food or drinks that stain (think blueberries, coffee, red wine). 
So, what, exactly, do I do?  I have not had any dental work.  I visit the dentist twice per year for normal checkups and cleanings.  As soon as I wake, every morning, I gently use a tongue scraper to remove buildup, bacteria, and germs that are lingering on my tongue.  This practice benefits overall health as much as keeping your breath fresh and smile nice.  Additionally, there is an extensive amount of information available about the health & hygiene benefits of tongue scraping.  This is an Ayurvedic practice that has been around for thousands of years.  Tongue scraping can help fend off illness, improve breath and aid in throat and stomach health.  After cramping the overnight buildup and bacteria, I brush my teeth first thing in the morning, (before any food or drink).  I brush again after breakfast and right before bed with Crest Whitening toothpaste.  There are tons of options and price points.  Crest 3d White is my favorite - these are 2 that I most often use:  You can check them out at the links below.   

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I use an electric toothbrush that is gentle, with soft bristles to prevent gum erosion.  Electric toothbrushes are highly recommended by dentist because they tend to be the least invasive to the gums.  

After brushing, I use the whitening mouthwash, swishing and gargling for 30 seconds. This disinfects the mouth and throat, stimulates lymphatic drainage, and posts the whitening of the teeth.  It helps to remove any daily stains and leaves my mouth feeling extra clean.

​Once, every 6 moths I use this exact whitening kit for 10 days in a row.  I do my teeth whitening strips in the morning while I am getting ready for the day.  The strips stretch and stick onto the teeth.  They are so easy to wear.  Just do not eat or drink with them in.  You leave them in place for 1 hour and follow with 5 minutes using the light before peeling them off. This is why it works for me during my shower, drying my hair and doing makeup.  Brush your teeth after peeling them off and you’er good to go.  This is the kit that I use.  Again, Crest offers lots of options, in kits, but I have found this kit gives me professional level results.  

Shop the Kit Here

This next part of my routine is key!  I only use a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth and gums during the 10 days that I am whitening my teeth.  This has been a game changer for me.  It makes a huge difference.  The Densify toothpaste seen below offers the bonus of protecting enamel as well.  I feel like that is important while I am whitening my teeth.   I do not use my mouthwash for that 10 day period either. 

I do not use these sensitivity toothpastes for a long period of time.  I do, however, use them for a few days any time I feel my teeth are sensitive to hot or cold, again.

Make sure to read and follow all of the package instructions provided by Crest and speak to YOUR DENTIST prior to trying this method for yourself.  This is what I do and it works great for me.  Everyone has different needs and may see different results.

Leave me a comment and let me know if you try my teeth whitening routine.  I would love to hear feedback.  

I’m Sheryl of SheDo50Too, a lifestyle blog about being over 50 and staying fit, healthy and fashionable.  Please SUBSCRIBE, LIKE & FOLLOW me if you’re interested in all of my inspiration & tips, trials & tribulations, for life over 50.  I am an Amazon Associate.  The fitness equipment, apparel, supplements and more, that I use - are available in my Amazon Storefront.   As an Amazon Associate I do earn commissions off of purchases through my links.  This has no affect on the cost to you.   Purchases through my links support my efforts to share on this blog.  

I only share information and items that I use regularly and truly believe in and love.  My results may not be the same for everyone.  I always recommend that you speak with your own healthcare provider prior to incorporating my routines into your own.  I am not a fitness or healthcare expert I simply share what works for me. 

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