Health Tip: Brightening Your Pearly Whites

(HealthDay News) -- There are a plenty of ways to whiten your teeth, using at-home kits or having them professionally brightened.

Here are things to keep in mind when considering a tooth whitening procedure, according to the American Dental Association:

• Teeth that have naturally turned a yellowish color usually respond well to tooth bleaching.

• Teeth that have discolored to a brownish or gray shade may not respond very well to bleaching.

• If you have bonding or tooth-colored fillings, they probably won't bleach well, and will stand out after your natural teeth are whitened.

• Porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be good options for people with dental work that doesn't bleach well.