Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures because it provides quick results. While the treatment is non-invasive, there are considerable differences between using over-the-counter kits and getting it done at the dentist. The contrast mainly affects the results you will get and the precision with which the whitening is administered.

Results

When you’re getting your teeth whitened, you want to see results quickly. DIY kits can brighten teeth somewhat, but not as much as your dentist can. That’s because over-the-counter versions have a more diluted bleaching solution. While there are many options to choose from, not all of them are equally effective.

For example, whitening toothpaste won’t brighten your teeth by more than one shade and only works on surface stains. Whitening strips will only brighten up the six teeth that are most visible in the front, but they usually don’t reach the back molars. On the other hand, your dentist can deliver even results for all your teeth and offer significant improvement in a short amount of time using custom-designed bleaching trays.

Precision

The biggest concern with teeth whitening is keeping the bleaching solution away from your gums. The bleach can cause irritation and discoloration of the gums, as well as sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. In-home whitening kits aren’t custom-made for you, which is why it’s more likely your gums will come into contact with the solution or gel.

At the office, your dentist can use a dam to protect your gums or create a custom tray for you. This ensures the potent bleaching solution is only applied to your teeth and doesn’t go above your gumline. The dentist also uses the gel or solution on all your teeth to create the precise results you’re looking for.

Teeth whitening is best done at your dentist’s office. The staff at Sun Dental and Orthodontics is proud to offer a safe deep bleaching method at their office in North Branch, MN. They design a custom tray specifically created to fit your mouth and protect your gumline. Visit their website to learn more about the services they offer, or call (651) 674-4811 to make an appointment.