Teeth whitening is the most common type of cosmetic dental treatment, for several reasons. It is often the most affordable way to upgrade your smile. Professional teeth whitening also offers fast results and it is a non-invasive treatment. Furthermore, there are more options than ever for brightening your smile. Teeth whitening may be performed by your dentist in their office. You may purchase a dental-grade take-home whitening kit from your dentist. You may also use over-the-counter products including whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, and strips. But which of these methods is the best way to whiten your teeth? Read on to learn what method is best for you.
Teeth Whitening: In-Office Teeth Whitening vs. Take-Home Whitening Kits from Your Dentist
If you’re looking for immediate results, your best bet is to schedule in-office teeth whitening from your dentist. In-office treatments provide noticeably whiter teeth in about an hour. In-office whitening (AKA teeth bleaching) is also less likely to lead to gum irritation as your dental team will use protective devices to ensure that the whitening agent is applied only to the teeth. In-office teeth whitening at your dentist will be the most expensive teeth whitening procedure.
Professional-grade take-home teeth whitening kits available from your dentist have also been proven to noticeably whiten teeth. The downside? Your results will take time (often a couple of weeks). However, you are welcome to whiten your teeth at your convenience, in the comfort of your own home. You should plan to be very mindful of the length of time you leave the bleaching agent on your teeth. You also need to use caution to avoid letting the bleaching gel come in contact with the gums. Take-home kits available from your dentist are less expensive than in-office teeth whitening.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products
When it comes to comparing over-the-counter teeth whitening products to professional whitening you’ll receive at your dentist, there is no disputing which treatment is more effective. In-office and professional take-home kits both deliver better results. The reason? Both have higher concentrations of the active whitening agent than is allowed in over-the-counter products.
You may get some results from whitening strips, and other whitening products you can find in a store. But they simply aren’t strong enough to match the results you can achieve with treatments or products from your dentist. The biggest benefit of over-the-counter products? They are the least expensive option for lightening stained teeth.
Book a Cosmetic Dental Consultation in Glen Cove, NY
To learn more about the pros and cons of different teeth whitening treatments and procedures, book a cosmetic dental consultation with Gold Coast Smiles today. Dr. Andrew Sami is a leading cosmetic dentist in Glen Cove, NY, specializing in all types of cosmetic dental treatments including porcelain veneers, CEREC crowns, CAD/CAM technology, and dental implants. Dr. Sami is also a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. To book a consultation call 516-676-0250. If you prefer, you may also book your appointment online.