There are many products on the market today that claim to whiten teeth. All you have to do is walk down the oral health aisle at your local store to find tons of whitening products! But are those options effective, or should you visit your dentist to purchase a professional whitening kit instead? This blog post can help you decide.
Effectiveness
Professional teeth whitening kits come with a highly concentrated bleaching formula that can deliver powerful results in a short amount of time. Even if you have relatively serious discoloration, you may start to notice a difference in just a few days (final results can take up to two weeks).
On the other hand, store-bought kits usually contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents, meaning it can take longer to see noticeable results. While they can be effective for minor stains, they often fall short when tackling tougher, deeper discoloration.
Customization
Another major advantage of professional teeth whitening is the level of customization offered. Your dentist will tailor the process to your specific needs. They will assess the condition of your teeth and the type of discoloration present. They can then adjust the concentration of the bleaching agent accordingly. Plus, custom trays can ensure that the gel is evenly distributed, preventing uneven whitening and reducing the risk of gum irritation.
Store-bought kits are one-size-fits-all solutions. While some kits offer different levels of bleaching strength, they lack the personalized approach of professional treatments. The trays included are generic and may not fit your mouth perfectly, leading to inconsistent results and potential irritation of the soft tissues in your mouth.
Safety
Under the supervision of a dentist, the risk of teeth whitening side effects, such as sensitivity or gum irritation, is minimized. Remember, your dentist’s top priority is not simply to sell you a treatment. They want your smile to be healthy, and they would never recommend any products or whitening methods that posed a significant threat.
Many store-bought whitening kits are safe if they are used as directed. However, overuse may cause damage to your enamel. Plus, you might have untreated dental conditions that you do not know about. Trying to whiten a tooth that has a cavity can be very uncomfortable!
While store-bought teeth whitening kits are not necessarily bad, they are not the best option for brightening your smile. Talk to your dentist to learn more about how you can safely and effectively get rid of dental stains.
Meet the Practice
At Orbis Dental Group, our team offers a variety of cosmetic treatments, including both take-home and in-office teeth whitening services. We use products from Opalescence and KOR, which are designed to be effective while keeping post-treatment sensitivity to a minimum. To learn more about these options or to request a consultation, contact our San Antonio office at 210-496-1919.