Stained, discolored teeth can interfere with your self-esteem and quality of life. If you want a more brilliant smile, you may be curious about your teeth whitening options.
Today, dental professionals offer multiple whitening options using safe, well-tested bleaching agents. This blog explains how professional teeth whitening works and contrasts it with over-the-counter options.
About Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional whitening is the fastest, safest, and longest-lasting option for brightening teeth. It uses gels made with carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. Peroxide is a unique compound that enters natural pores in the tooth enamel, eliminating staining from the inside in a process called oxidation.
Your Teeth Whitening Options
Option #1: At-Home Whitening
At-home whitening processes combine professional-strength products with the convenience of treatment in your home. Your dentist takes digital or traditional impressions of your teeth and uses these to create custom whitening trays. At home, you fill the trays with a specialized version of professional whitening gel. The length of time you wear the trays depends on your desired results. Within just a few weeks, you will have a brilliant smile.
Option #2: In-Office Bleaching
Another option for professional whitening is to receive chairside treatment. This method is faster than at-home whitening and provides more dramatic results.
Option #3: Over-the-Counter Whitening
Patients who feel professional whitening is inconvenient or too costly sometimes turn to over-the-counter whitening. Most products purchased in retail stores and pharmacies are safe when used according to the directions, but they may take an extended time to work.
While the sticker price of over-the-counter whitening seems lower, you may spend an equivalent amount to get the same results as you would with a professional regimen.
Keeping Your Teeth Brighter Longer
- Avoid staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark chocolate
- Be cautious with acidic foods like soda and citrus
- Practice excellent oral hygiene
- Attend all scheduled appointments for professional cleanings and exams
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
Can I get my sensitive teeth whitened?
Your dentist can adjust the concentration of your whitening gel and provide treatments to reduce sensitivity,
Is activated charcoal safe for teeth whitening?
Activated charcoal is a coarse product that may polish away surface stains, but it can cause severe enamel damage and is best avoided.