A radiant, white smile can increase confidence and leave a lasting impression. Teeth whitening procedures have gained popularity, with numerous options to choose from, ranging from professional procedures at a dental clinic to home kits. The question is: which one is best? This is one debate that active discussants within the bleaching community continue to engage in: Dentist teeth whitening vs. home kits. This blog will compare professional teeth whitening and at-home whitening to help you make an informed decision.
Learning about teeth whitening
The procedure which lightens the color of teeth by removing stains and discoloration is teeth whitening. The most common reasons causing staining include
- Food and Beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and heavy foods stain teeth over time.
- Smoking and Tobacco Consumption: Nicotine and tar in tobacco cause yellowing of teeth.
- Aging: The enamel on our teeth gets worn out as we grow older, exposing the naturally yellow dentin underneath.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor brushing and flossing can result in plaque buildup and staining.
- Medications: Some medications cause innate discoloration, antibiotics being one of them.
Having understood the causes of discolouration, you would like to know if “Is professional teeth whitening worth it?” “Is it better than home tooth whitening?”
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening in Markham is carried out by dentists with high-concentration bleach applied to the teeth for the quickest, most efficacious form of teeth whitening. The well-known chief forms of professional whitening treatments would include:
1. In-Office Whitening
This process is carried out in a dentistry clinic for about an hour. The dentist uses a highly concentrated bleaching gel that they directly apply to the tooth, which is usually activated with a special light or laser.
Pros:
- Rapid Results: The patient can have a lighter shade in one sitting. The dentist must monitor the patient during the process so that the process is safe and allows safe from gum irritation.
- Long-Lasting: How long does teeth whitening last? Results can last for even up to one year or more depending upon general oral hygiene and home maintenance.
Cons:
- Costly: Usual costs incurred for office visits would be greater than for the use of home kits.
- Short-term Sensitivity: Most become sensitive to their teeth for some time after the treatment.
2. Professional Take-Home Kits
For those who want the comfort of whitening their teeth on their own yet want to keep their results looking professional, dentists provide take-home whitening kits that contain individually fitted trays and a professional-strength bleaching gel.
Pros:
- Less Costly than In-Office Procedures: While still more expensive than over-the-counter products, take-home kits provide the same effective result for much less cost.
- Personalized for Better Fit: Custom trays provide even application of the whitening gel, minimizing gum irritation.
- Gradual Whitening: It is performed over a period of weeks, facilitating even and controlled whitening.
Cons:
- Takes Longer: Results don’t show immediately, unlike office treatments.
- Discipline Required: Trays must continuously be put into use per the dentist’s instructions for optimum results.
Teeth Bleaching Treatments At Home
Bleaching treatments performed at home come in many forms, from store-bought to holistic. Included are toothpastes, strips, gels, and home remedies.
1. Bleaching Toothpaste and Mouthwash
Bleaching toothpaste has mild abrasives and chemicals that clean away stains on the surface. Bleaching mouthwashes have trace amounts of peroxide, which cause gradual effects.
Pros:
- Cheap Products: These treatments are cheap and available.
- Simple Application: No dental equipment is required for use.
- Good for Maintenance: New stains are prevented from setting.
Cons:
- Limited Efficacy in Whitening: These products can only whiten the surface and not give an intense whitening effect to the teeth.
- Time-Consuming: Slower and not as dramatic when compared with professional treatment.
2. Whitening Strips and Gels
Over-the-counter whitening products such as strips and gels are peroxide-based bleaches that are applied to the teeth.
Pros:
- More Effectiveness than Toothpaste: Can whiten teeth a few shades over time.
- Cheap: Less expensive than professional treatments.
- Easy: Easy application at home without any required professional expertise.
Cons:
- Patchy Whitening: Strips don’t adhere uniformly to all teeth, resulting in patchy whitening.
- Gum Sensitivity: Gum discomfort or sensitivity is reported by some users.
- Temporary: Results may be lost in a few months.
3. Natural Remedies (Baking Soda, Activated Charcoal, etc.)
Among many, the most common natural methods are the use of baking soda, activated charcoal, or hydrogen peroxide rinses.
Pros:
- Low Cost: Cheap and easily available.
- Natural Ingredients: Free from chemicals used in some over-the-counter items.
Cons:
- Lack of Scientific Evidence: The efficacy of these treatments is not well documented.
- Can Be Abrasive: Prolonged use of baking soda or charcoal can wear down the enamel over time.
- Slow Results: Offer minor whitening or are slow in action.
For professional teeth whitening, consult a dentist in Markham to discuss the best options for achieving a brighter smile.
Which One Works Best?
The ideal method of teeth whitening depends on what you will be expecting, what your budget is, and how sensitive your teeth are. Is professional whitening worth it? Professional whitening is the answer if you really want quick, effective, and long-lasting results.
Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Session Today!
If you’re looking for quick, dramatic, and long-lasting results, professional teeth whitening is the best option. Our team at Markville Dental provides safe and effective treatments tailored to your goals. For other home options with professional guidance, take-home custom kits are a fantastic alternative.
If you’re looking for a bright, shining smile efficiently and safely, consider scheduling a consultation with your local dentist today!
Ready to brighten your smile? Call our dental clinic in Markham to book your professional teeth whitening session. Call us or check out our website to find out more about our services!
