The best long term way to achieve white teeth with artificial finishes are porcelain veneers. The inexpensive tooth whitening products people buy can lead to sensitive teeth and chemical burns.

Porcelain veneers are a much more intensive procedure than teeth bleaching. They require that molds be made of your teeth, then your teeth are filed down and covered individually with porcelain shells. Veneers are most advantageous if you have chipped, small or crooked teeth. They're today's version of the crown of yesterday.

See a short video showing the basics about porcelain veneers.