Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Store-Bought Kits
Coffee, tea, red wine and time all darken teeth. Whitening removes many of those stains, but the options differ a lot in strength, speed and comfort. Here is how they compare.
Three ways to whiten
| In-office whitening | Take-home trays from your dentist | Over-the-counter products | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whitening agent | Hydrogen peroxide, about 15% to 43% | Carbamide peroxide, about 10% to 16% | Lower strengths; varies by product |
| Speed | Often one visit of 30 to 60 minutes | Gradual, over days to weeks | Slowest |
| Fit | Applied by the dentist, with your gums protected | Trays custom-made for your teeth | One-size strips or trays |
| Trade-offs | Costs more | Can irritate the gums | Results and safety vary |
Dental experts quoted by ADA News say in-office whitening can lighten teeth by three to eight shades in a single session. If you buy an over-the-counter product, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance on the box.
What about sensitivity?
Some people feel sensitivity during or after whitening. Hydrogen peroxide works faster but is more likely to cause it, while carbamide peroxide works more slowly and tends to be gentler. A desensitizing toothpaste can help. If the sensitivity doesn't go away, call your dentist.
What whitening won't change
Whitening works on natural tooth enamel. Crowns, veneers and tooth-colored fillings keep their original shade, so if you have any on your front teeth, they may stand out after whitening. Your dentist can tell you what to expect and whether those restorations would need to be replaced to match.
See your dentist first
Whitening gel on a cavity or on inflamed gums can be painful, so it is best to have a checkup and cleaning before you whiten. A cleaning alone removes some surface stains, and your dentist can tell you how much lighter your teeth are likely to get.
Keeping your results
- Brush twice a day and floss daily.
- Keep up with regular cleanings.
- Don't smoke.
- Rinse with water after coffee, tea, red wine, soda, dark berries or deeply colored sauces.
Whitening in El Dorado Hills
Drs. Peliks & Peliks offer professional teeth whitening and can tell you which option fits your teeth. Call (916) 933-7401 to book a visit.
