Plenty of dentists offer professional teeth whitening that can help patients brighten their smiles by several shades. However, you may have noticed ads on television or social media for over-the-counter products that claim to be able to whiten teeth at a much lower cost. But are these products really a viable alternative? Here’s a closer look at how over-the-counter whitening compares to professional whitening.
Are Over-the-Counter Whitening Products Effective?
While over-the-counter whitening products can help get rid of certain dental stains, they can often leave a lot to be desired. Many patients find that these products simply don’t deliver the results that they want. This can be attributed to the fact that the bleaching agents in store-bought products are weaker than those used in professional treatments.
Furthermore, problems can arise when using products that haven’t been personalized for your unique smile. For example, if you buy an over-the-counter whitening kit, it will come with special trays that are meant to be worn while filled with whitening gel. However, because these trays are one-size-fits-all, they may not properly cover your teeth, leading to uneven whitening. Additionally, trying to wear trays that are too small could end up hurting your gums.
Why is Professional Whitening the Better Choice?
Professional whitening is considered to be a highly reliable approach to brightening teeth due to the fact that it utilizes powerful, clinically proven ingredients. On top of that, whitening that is performed with the oversight of a dental expert is much safer for your smile overall.
There are two kinds of professional teeth whitening that you can choose from:
- At-Home Teeth Whitening: Your dentist can provide you with a whitening kit that contains professional-grade bleaching gel. It will also come with trays that have been designed based on impressions of your mouth, meaning you can count on them to fit properly over your teeth.
- In-Office Teeth Whitening: The main advantage of an in-office whitening procedure is that it is very fast. The treatment can typically be completed in about an hour, and patients can often enjoy dramatic improvements in just one appointment.
While over-the-counter whitening products may seem like a convenient and affordable option, ultimately professional teeth whitening is more likely to be able to help you achieve your smile goals. If you’re interested in brightening your grin, talk to your dentist to see what kind of options they have to offer for at-home teeth whitening and in-office teeth whitening.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol originally practiced dentistry in India, which is where he earned a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Doctor of Dental Science. His San Ramon practice, Oak Ridge Dental, offers a comprehensive range of services, including at-home and in-office teeth whitening options for patients who are unhappy with the color of their smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deol, visit his website or call (925) 735-6190.
