Since dental enamel is naturally porous, the pigments in the foods and drinks that you consume can eventually cause deep staining, making your smile look dingy. These days, patients are faced with a variety of whitening products, but there is a reason dentists recommend professional assistance. Here is a little more information about the benefits of professional teeth whitening, and how to choose the best option for you. 

Guide to Professional Teeth Whitening

How Is Professional Whitening Better? 

While it is possible to purchase teeth whitening strips, gels, and pens in supermarkets across the country, the vast majority of these products aren’t approved by the American Dental Association (ADA) and could harm your dental enamel or gum tissue. Additionally, the lightening ingredients used in these over-the-counter products vary in strength, making it hard for customers to predict results. 

Professional dentists carefully examine your teeth before recommending lightening products, so whitening is fast, effective, and comfortable. Dentists also have access to higher concentrations of whitening gel and products that are light-activated, allowing them to offer more targeted treatments in a fraction of the time. Your safety is the top priority for your dentist, who will check your teeth carefully for damage and sensitive areas before treatment begins.

What Options Can Patients Choose From?

Dental patients today can either choose from in-office teeth whitening treatments or customized whitening trays, giving patients the opportunity to improve their smile on their own schedules. While in-office treatments are typically preferred by patients who want fast, simple whitening, take-home kits are perfect for maintaining results or whitening teeth when you won’t have easy access to your dental office. 

Could your smile use a little pick-me-up? The team at South Baldwin Dental Associates, P.C. understands how much of a difference teeth whitening can make, which is why they offer both in-office and take-home whitening options for their patients. In addition to a long list of cosmetic treatments, these experienced dental professionals also provide preventative, restorative, and general dental services. To learn more about this Foley, AL, practice, visit their website or call (251) 943-1521.