At-Home vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, right up there with dental veneers, dental crowns and clear aligners or braces. And as far as cosmetic dentistry options, teeth whitening is one of the least expensive treatment options while still providing dramatic results. In fact, if you are looking for a cosmetic or general dentist in The Woodlands or Spring, Tx, you may have teeth whitening in the back of your mind as one of the treatments you would like to discuss.
In addition to professional teeth whitening, teeth whitening strips and other over-the-counter whitening options are readily available as well. At-home teeth whitening options can be purchased from your dentist or over the counter, including trays, lights, rinses, strips and brushes. Some of these options are more effective and safer to use than others.
How do I know if I am a good candidate for teeth whitening?
If you are considering teeth whitening of any kind, whether professional or at-home, you should talk to your dentist to make sure you are a good candidate for teeth whitening and to also discuss the best method of whitening for your teeth and oral health.
One of the primary reasons you should always consult your dentist before any professional or at-home whitening treatment is that not all teeth can or should be whitened. Certain types of staining and discoloration cannot be corrected with teeth whitening procedures. Furthermore, if you have had certain dental conditions or treatments, teeth whitening treatments will not be effective and may lead to undesirable results.
How do I know what kind of teeth whitening is best for me?
Once you have determined, in consult with your dentist, that you are a good candidate for teeth whitening, then you may want to answer the following questions:
Is professional teeth whitening or at-home whitening the better option? What are the benefits of professional teeth whitening? Will professional teeth whitening at my dentist’s office produce more immediate, more dramatic results? How long am I willing to wait before seeing results from my teeth whitening treatment?
What are some of the primary differences between at-home and professional teeth whitening?
When it comes to professional vs. at-home teeth whitening, there are several primary differences to consider.
TIME
The amount of time spent to achieve whiter teeth varies dramatically between professional and at-home treatments. Professional, in-office teeth whitening treatments can achieve dramatic and customizable results in a 1 to 2 hour treatment. At-home whitening kits or strips typically require 1 to 2 hours per day over a series of days or weeks in order to achieve results approximately half as significant. Essentially, a dentist can potentially whiten your teeth up to 8 shades lighter in one visit while at-home kits may take weeks to whiten your teeth just 3 to 6 shades lighter.
SAFETY
Safety is another factor to consider when deciding whether to choose at-home teeth whitening or professional teeth whitening. With professional, in-office teeth whitening, your dentist or dental professional can safely administer the chemical or bleaching solution without damaging your teeth or surrounding tissues. If you choose at-home whitening kits or treatments, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and immediately stop treatment if you experience any discomfort or sensitivity.
COST
The cost difference between at-home teeth whitening and professional, in-office teeth whitening can be the point of decision for many. At-home teeth whitening is typically less expensive than having your teeth whitened at the dentist’s office. However, keep in mind that any damage done to your teeth or gums through at-home teeth whitening can result in costly dental appointments or treatments to restore your oral and dental health.
Interested in professional-quality, at-home whitening treatments? Call WoodSprings Dentistry today to ask about Glo Whitening Kits. These whitening kits make great gifts and are a good option for anyone who is looking for a more cost-effective treatment option that is still safe and recommended by dentists.
LONGEVITY
Because of the difference of the potency and effectiveness of at-home vs. in-office teeth whitening treatments, your teeth will maintain the results for longer if you choose to have your teeth whitening done professionally in your dentist’s office.
If you are interested in either at-home or professional teeth whitening, the first step is to talk to your dentist. Call WoodSprings Dentistry today or talk with Drs. Samantha or James Tejada at your next dental appointment to find out what teeth whitening option is right for you.