Cosmetic dentistry is dental work that improves the appearance of the teeth and mouth. While general dentistry focuses on oral hygiene and preventing and treating oral disease, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving aesthetics in color, position, shape, size, alignment, and overall appearance. Many people seek these procedures to correct imperfections and achieve a more uniform smile. Teeth whitening is a frequently requested cosmetic procedure, and most options can brighten a smile without invasive techniques. Here’s information on the benefits of professional and over-the-counter teeth whitening options:
Trying Professional Whitening Options
When interested in teeth whitening, professional options offer a fast and effective way to brighten your smile. Dental offices usually offer two main types of professional whitening: in-office treatments and custom take-home kits. In-office procedures are performed by a dental professional, and custom take-home kits are available for your convenience.
What Are the Professional Options?
In-office teeth whitening involves applying a high-concentration peroxide gel directly to the teeth. During this service, the dentists will protect your gums with a specialized barrier before applying the whitening agent. Some systems use a laser or other light source to activate the gel and accelerate the chemical reaction. Light activation may help speed up the oxidation process, enabling the whitening agent to penetrate the enamel more efficiently.
For at-home professional options, the dentist first takes impressions of your teeth to create custom-fitted trays. These trays help the whitening gel remain in contact with your tooth enamel, reducing your risk of gum irritation. You will receive a professional-grade whitening solution to use with these trays at home for a specified period, usually over a couple of weeks.
How Does Professional Whitening Work?
Professional treatments yield faster results primarily because of the concentration of active ingredients within their whitening gels. The whitening agents used in a dental office contain a much higher percentage of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide compared to products available in stores. Because dental professionals apply these potent agents, they can safely use higher concentrations to rapidly break down deep stains. Professional take-home applications often use higher-concentration whitening solutions, but they are less potent than in-office applications.
Utilizing In-store Whitening Methods
Over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products are readily available at pharmacies and supermarkets, and they include options like:
- Whitening Strips
- Gels
- Toothpastes
- Rinses
Whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic strips coated with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide that adhere to the teeth. Whitening toothpastes rely mainly on abrasive particles to polish the teeth and remove surface stains rather than changing the intrinsic color of the tooth.
These methods are generally less effective than professional treatments due to their lower potency and “one-size-fits-all” approach to application. The concentration of bleaching agents in OTC products is regulated for safety, limiting their ability to remove deep discoloration. OTC trays or strips do not fit perfectly, potentially leading to uneven whitening or allowing the gel to leak onto the gums, which can cause irritation.
Exploring Your Options
Choosing the appropriate whitening method depends on the condition of your teeth, your budget, and your desired timeline. Individuals with deep, intrinsic stains or those preparing for a specific event often benefit most from fast professional in-office whitening treatments. Those with minor surface staining may find over-the-counter products sufficient for slight color improvements. Before starting a new whitening method, consult with your dentist, as they can evaluate your oral health and recommend the safest approach.
Schedule a Teeth Whitening Appointment
Achieving a brighter smile involves weighing the benefits of professional expertise against the convenience of store-bought solutions. Professional whitening offers a controlled environment, higher-strength agents, and custom solutions that OTC products do not. If you are interested in teeth whitening, contact a dental professional to schedule a consultation today.
