Many of us dream of a dazzling, white smile. Luckily, that dream is more achievable because of professional teeth whitening methods. Whether you’re considering in-office treatments or exploring take-home kits, options abound for getting those pearly whites even whiter.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through various professional teeth whitening options, diving into the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision on the optimal method for you. Read on.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
It’s a quick and effective method where your dentist will apply a high-concentration peroxide gel to your teeth, sometimes using a specialized light to speed up the process.Steps Involved:
Planning to start your teeth whitening journey? You will undergo the following steps in the process:- Initial Assessment – Checking the current shade of your teeth.
- Tooth Cleaning – Removal of any plaque or debris.
- Gel Application – High-concentration peroxide gel is applied to your teeth.
- Light Activation – Optional step using specialized light to speed up whitening.
- Final Evaluation – Post-treatment shade check to evaluate effectiveness.
Benefits:
Opting for in-office teeth whitening offers several advantages:- Immediate and lasting results.
- The procedure is safe and supervised by professionals.
- Customization options are available for sensitive teeth or specific staining.
Time Duration and Typical Results
Duration could differ from patient to patient, but this is what you can expect in the procedure:| Factor | Details |
| Time | 60-90 minutes |
| Results | Up to eight shades lighter in one session |
Cost Considerations
The cost of in-office teeth whitening can vary depending on location and individual dental needs.| Expense | Estimated Cost Range |
| Initial Consultation | Around $50-$100 |
| Whitening Procedure | Around $200-$900 |
Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
1. Custom Trays
Custom trays are individually made to fit your teeth and are provided by your dentist. They come with a professional-grade whitening gel that you can apply at home.Custom Trays vs. Over-the-Counter Kits
| Aspect | Custom Trays | Over-the-Counter Kits |
| Fit | Custom-fitted | One-size-fits-all |
| Whitening Gel | Professional-grade | Less concentrated |
| Effectiveness | More efficient due to better fit and stronger gel | Results can vary |
| Supervision | Provided by a dental professional | No professional supervision |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
Benefits:
- Precise fit ensures better whitening coverage.
- Less irritation to gums due to custom fit.
- It is a stronger, more effective whitening gel.
2. Over-the-Counter Kits
These whitening trays or strips are available for purchase at drugstores or online. They are generally less concentrated and offer a one-size-fits-all solution.Benefits:
- Convenient and easy to use
- More affordable
- No need for a dentist visit
Downsides:
- Less effective than professional options
- Can cause gum irritation
- Results will not last long
How to Choose the Right Over-the-Counter Kit
When picking a kit, consider the following:- Check for approval if it’s safe to use.
- Look for reviews or recommendations.
- Be aware of any gum sensitivity issues you will have.
Laser Teeth Whitening
It’s a professional procedure carried out in a dental office. Your dentist applies a high-concentration peroxide gel to the teeth and then uses a laser to activate the gel. This speeds up the bleaching process, offering quick and surprising results. Benefits and Potential Downsides| Aspect | Benefits | Considerations |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective; visible results in one session | Sensitivity issues can arise |
| Speed | Quick process; about 30-60 minutes | Will require additional sessions |
| Safety | Performed by dental professionals | Possibility of gum irritation |
| Longevity | Results can last up to a year | Results can vary based on diet and habits |
Cost Considerations:
- Price Range: Typically more expensive than other whitening methods, ranging from $500 to $1,500 per session.
- Insurance: Most insurance plans don’t cover cosmetic procedures, including laser teeth whitening.
- Additional Costs: Maintenance or follow-up sessions could incur extra charges.
- Consultation Fees: Some dentists can charge a separate fee for an initial consultation.
- Geographical Location: Costs vary depending on your location.
Zoom Teeth Whitening
In an article, Natalie Asmussen and Sandra Serrano Pardo, DMD, explain that Zoom is a widely recognized brand in professional, in-office teeth whitening. It stands out for its light-activated hydrogen peroxide gel, which works with a specially designed UV light to accelerate the whitening process.Whitening Process:
- Application of the hydrogen peroxide gel to the teeth.
- A UV light is then used to activate the gel, allowing for quickly and effectively breaking down stains and discolouration.
Pros and Cons
| Aspect | Pros | Considerations |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective with instant results | Can cause temporary teeth or gum sensitivity |
| Speed | Quick procedure; typically under an hour | Will require additional home maintenance |
| Safety | Performed by dental professionals | Slight risk of gum irritation |
| Longevity | Results can last up to 12-24 months | Results can fade if poor dental hygiene is maintained |
| Convenience | One-session procedure in most cases | Not ideal for people sensitive to light |
Deep Bleaching
It’s an advanced whitening procedure to remove stubborn, deep-set stains that other methods could not effectively tackle. The process combines in-office treatments with take-home custom trays, allowing the whitening agents to penetrate deeper into the tooth enamel. Multiple sessions are generally required for optimal results.Deep Bleaching vs. Other Methods
| Features | Deep Bleaching | Other Methods |
| Depth of Whitening | Deep-set stains can be removed | Can only remove surface-level stains |
| Treatment Duration | Multiple sessions | Usually fewer sessions or one-time treatment |
| Customization | Customized take-home trays involved | Generally one-size-fits-all |
| Effectiveness | High effectiveness for stubborn stains | Varies by method and type of stain |
| Cost | Typically more expensive | Varies; generally less costly |
Who Should Consider Deep Bleaching?
- People with Severe Staining
- Previous Whitening Failures
- Long-term Results Seekers
Situations Where It is Used
| Situations | Description |
| After a Root Canal Treatment | To treat discolouration caused by the materials used in the procedure. |
| Trauma-Induced Discoloration | For teeth that have changed colour due to injury. |
| Developmental Issues | To treat teeth that have internal discoloration from conditions like fluorosis. |
| Ineffectiveness of External Whitening | When other whitening methods don’t work on internal stains. |
Process and Expected Results
- Consult: Dentist confirms if internal whitening suits you.
- Prep: A hole is drilled in the discoloured tooth.
- Apply: Whitening gel goes inside the tooth.
- Seal: Hole is sealed to keep gel in place.
- Check: Return to assess results and can apply for more gel.
- Finish: Hole is sealed permanently when desired shade is reached.
Dental Teeth Whitening Brings Out Confidence
A pearly white and brighter smile boosts your confidence, especially when socializing. Each method comes with its benefits, downsides, and cost considerations. Consider factors like your budget, how quickly you want results, the severity of your stains, and personal comfort when choosing a method. For your professional teeth whitening needs, consulting with the leading dental clinic for personalized advice tailored to your unique needs. Contact us at Westagate Dental Centre and see the difference we can make in bringin out the finest in your smiles.FAQs
How do I choose the right cosmetic dentist to do my whitening procedure?
To choose the right cosmetic dentist for teeth whitening, consider these quick tips:
- Check credentials and experience.
- Check the before and after photos of their work.
- Read reviews
- Consult and compare costs.
- Make sure they have a clean office environment.
