Comparing Professional Teeth-Whitening Options From a Cosmetic Dentist

In time, teeth can become dull and stained due to many factors. Staining foods and beverages such as tea, coffees, and berries, are the most common causes. Certain medications, illnesses, injuries, aging, and tobacco use can also discolor teeth. 

Teeth whitening can benefit patients looking to get a bright white smile. Here are the different teeth whitening options you can choose from:

At-Home Teeth Whitening

The number of options for teeth whitening at home has expanded in recent years. Whitening toothpaste, strips, gels, and trays all promise whiter, brighter smiles. Most teeth whitening solutions focus on removing surface stains using abrasive or chemical solutions. Most techniques, however, don't bleach severely discolored stains.

• Whitening toothpaste does not include a bleaching agent but focuses more on abrasive ingredients to eliminate stains.
• Whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide, they are applied directly to the teeth's surface, and must be used twice a day for about 14 days. 
• Whitening strips are coated with a peroxide whitening gel and should be used twice daily for about 14 days.
• Home teeth whitening trays are custom-made trays that fit your teeth perfectly to ensure good contact between the gel and the teeth. These trays are provided by general or cosmetic dentists. 

At-home teeth whitening solutions take up to several weeks to show changes, and the results last less than the results of professional teeth whitening treatments. The reason is that these solutions comprise whitening agents that are not as powerful as professional ones. 

At-home teeth whitening is very convenient and economical. However, it may cause gum irritation and sensitivity if not appropriately used and monitored.

Professional Teeth Whitening

If you are looking for an instant and more long-lasting solution, then in-office teeth whitening treatment is the best option. In-office bleaching systems use more powerful whitening solutions, with a hydrogen peroxide concentration of up to 35%. This ensures a whiter smile in a shorter time. 

In order to remove tough stains and achieve a brighter shade of white, laser light is used to activate the bleaching agents. As a result, the process is considerably accelerated compared to at-home whitening. 

To learn more about our teeth whitening treatments, visit our office, Alencar Family Dentistry, at 711 Greenbrier Pkwy Suite 101, Chesapeake, VA 23320. You can also reach us at (757) 546-0301.