When you walk down the oral care aisle at your local pharmacy, your eye may be drawn to the array of teeth whitening products. These products promise professional results at a lower cost. However, all is not as it seems.
Our team at JM Dental of Westbury wants you to know that professional whitening solutions have several clear advantages over store-bought products. This article will explain how teeth whitening works, the effectiveness of each method, the relative value you receive for your investment, and how safety questions may affect your decision.
How Teeth Whitening Products Work
Both professional and store-bought teeth whitening products use either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals enter the pores (tubules) in natural enamel and oxidize the stains under the surface, effectively breaking up the unwanted pigments.
How Store-Bought Solutions Compare to Professional Whitening
While the chemical action is similar between the two whitening systems, we want our patients to understand their effectiveness.
Store-Bought Whitening Products
- These products use a much lower concentration of peroxide solution than professional products.
- They have slower action, meaning you will need to use the products for longer to achieve results comparable to professional results.
- Strips and gels may be harsher on teeth and gums than professional whitening.
Professional Whitening
- For in-office whitening, it generally only takes one or two appointments to achieve a dazzling yet natural-looking smile.
- If you want a more gradual effect, at-home whitening trays filled with a gentler, but still professional-grade solution, are a convenient option.
- If you have sensitive teeth, we can adapt our procedures to help you feel more comfortable during and after the procedure.
Professional Whitening: A Better Value Over Time
When you add the cost of all the over-the-counter products you have purchased in the pursuit of whiter teeth, you may be surprised at how much you spent. Rather than spending relatively small amounts on each package you buy, you may find that a professional whitening treatment offers better value for the time spent.
Safety of Over-the-Counter Products
Following the directions on a package of over-the-counter strips or mouthwash may not lead to rapid results, but you should not experience any safety issues. However, when used more frequently than the package indicates, over-the-counter products can cause severe teeth sensitivity over time.
Another whitening product category you should consider avoiding is online solutions not manufactured by well-known brands. These products may contain potent whitening solutions, but when used without proper dental supervision, they can cause lasting sensitivity and burn your lips and gums.
Explore Professional Teeth Whitening
Your trusted dentist is the best place to turn for questions about teeth whitening and how you can take advantage of this procedure to brighten and rejuvenate your smile. We specialize in cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, and can help anyone feel proud of their smile. As you compare teeth whitening products, ensure you consult a dentist for your oral health and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
Can too much whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Excessive sensitivity can be an issue when patients overuse teeth-whitening products. Under a dentist’s supervision, you are far less likely to experience lingering side effects. Dentists also have specialized fluoride gels to apply after whitening to remineralize the teeth and reduce sensitivity.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
Teeth whitening is generally a comfortable procedure. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let us know so we can take the best care of your smile.
Can I have my restorative dental work whitened?
Unfortunately, tooth-colored restorations do not respond to whitening solutions because they are not made of natural tooth enamel. If you have visible dental work and want to whiten your teeth, we can create a plan for you.
Does teeth whitening look fake?
In a skilled dentist’s hands, your teeth will look natural even in lighter shades. If you want a more gradual change in your appearance, look into at-home professional whitening solutions.
How can I keep my whitened teeth looking their best?
Be cautious with deeply pigmented foods and beverages. Red wine, soda, tomato sauce, and berries are well-known culprits, but you may not have considered dark chocolate and turmeric. Use a straw whenever possible to keep the pigments away from your forward-facing tooth surfaces.
At JM Dental of Westbury, we care for the local community and the surrounding area. We want you to have a brilliant smile, and we can help you achieve the appearance you want as safely as possible. To learn more and book your consultation, please call us today!