We’ve all seen the ads for at-home teeth whitening kits that promise amazing results. But, can whitening strips, pens, and gels deliver equal or better results than a professional whitening? Most of the time, the answer is no.
If you want predictable and dramatic whitening results using safe products, a professional teeth whitening is the way to go. At Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. in Orinda, California, we can give you a bright white smile safely and quickly. In this blog, Dr. Ellis explains why a professional whitening is superior to over-the-counter options.
Professional bleaching agents are superior
Typically, the bleaching agents in over-the-counter teeth whitening products aren't as powerful as those in professional products. That means you won’t get the results that you would with a professional treatment. Or, it may take a lot longer to get your teeth to your desired shade of white.
Furthermore, some over-the-counter whitening products may contain bleaching agents that aren’t safe to use. These types of products could make your teeth and gums extra sensitive to hot and cold temperatures and certain foods.
Professional treatments use custom whitening trays
Another reason professional whitening treatments at Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. are better than over-the-counter treatments is that Dr. Ellis uses custom whitening trays. Dr. Ellis makes these trays specifically for your teeth, so they fit properly and minimize contact between the whitening gel and your gums.
Additionally, when you come in for in-office teeth whitening, we may apply a special gel along your gumline before we begin the whitening treatment to reduce the risk of irritation even more.
Since custom whitening trays fit your teeth snugly, the whitening agents can do their job more effectively than over-the-counter whitening treatments. You can even use your whitening trays for touch-ups at home.
Deep stains respond best to professional whitening treatments
Some tooth stains are extrinsic, meaning they’re on the surfaces of your teeth. For example, your teeth might look yellowish because you drink coffee, tea, or red wine. Dark-colored sodas and berries can also stain your teeth over time, as can smoking and chewing tobacco.
In some cases, though, you may have intrinsic stains. These stains, which are below the surfaces of your teeth, can come from excessive fluoride use, certain medications, and genetics. Tooth decay and injury can also lead to intrinsic tooth discoloration.
Age-related teeth stains are often a combination of both intrinsic and extrinsic stains. Teeth naturally turn yellow from the inside out with age. Furthermore, the enamel usually becomes thinner, allowing the dentin inside the teeth to become more visible. This can cause your teeth to look a dull yellow instead of bright white.
If you have intrinsic stains, over-the-counter products may not be able to remove them. A professional teeth whitening, on the other hand, can give you dramatic results in a short time and in a safe manner.
Are you ready to take the first step toward a more brilliant smile? To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. today.