The first group of procedures and options fall under at-home teeth whitening procedures. The next set belongs to dentist-supervised teeth whitening procedures. Now which between the two is the better choice for someone looking to improve the looks of her teeth? What are the differences, if there are any? Intrinsic stains are caused by the natural process of aging, trauma to the tooth, exposure to drugs containing tetracycline and flourosis. Other factor that stains the teeth is grinding. Grinding often attributed to stress accelerates micro cracking of the tooth enamel that will hold tiny debris to be accumulated. Professional supervision is needed in such cases. Finally, see your dentist first. This is especially true if you have suffered teeth trauma in the past and have gums that are easily irritated. Even if you do not have these issues, you may still need a mouth exam and an assessment of your gums. Your dentist is also in the best position to seek advice regarding over-the-counter system that could be used. When in the mouth, carbamide peroxide breaks down into urea and hydrogen peroxide with hydrogen peroxide being the bleaching agent. The dentin on the other hand could also catch stains. Many stains when allowed for a long period of time could get into the dentin forming stains that could show through the enamel. And what you do after is to religiously brush your teeth as recommended by the manufacturer of the product. The other way is the simplest. You get the services of the professional that offers professional teeth whitening services. This is the most cost-effective way of managing your teeth without having to wait for weeks for results. The procedures in teeth whitening may compromise the pulp chamber and the nerve of the tooth. And at that stage, the pulp is still enlarged and when done for people of this age then this may only irritate that area. Also it should be remembered that these procedures are not best for pregnant women. Once the women gave birth and has finished the lactating stage, then that is the time that whitening procedures are safer.