Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so you may be looking to teeth whitening for a positive first impression. You’ll have to decide whether to whiten your teeth at home with over-the-counter products or have a dentist help you with the procedure. Here are some of the main differences between DIY and professional whitening that will help you make an informed decision.

Process 

Teeth whitening products are easily accessible and found in a variety of forms, including strips and toothpaste. Bleaching strips are coated with a gel that contains peroxide, which is secured onto your teeth for 5 to 30 minutes daily, depending on the application directions. Whitening toothpaste doesn’t provide results as quickly, but rather diminishes the appearance of stains and yellowness over time.

Professional whitening is a more complex, individualized procedure with impressive results. A dentist determines the current shade of your teeth, polishes them to remove plaque, and applies a whitening solution for 30 to 60 minutes until the optimal shade is reached. The process can be finished in a single visit, while over-the-counter products could take months for results.

Safety

While convenient, DIY whitening involves more risk than reward. Just like bleaching your hair too often can damage it, regular use of at-home whitening strips can damage your dentin, or the inside of the teeth containing connective tissue. Hydrogen peroxide, the common ingredient in these products, passes into the tooth to break down complex molecules, making them weak and brittle. 

The American Dental Association advises that you consult with dentists to determine an appropriate whitening treatment. Dentists take precautions in evaluating your tooth sensitivity and oral health history to scale the potency of whitening solutions. Dentists apply bleaching agents precisely for even whitening and to ensure your gums are protected from damage and irritation. 

Results

Teeth whitening products are effective short-term solutions for discolored teeth. But for long-term implications, most products need to be used repeatedly in frequent successions. Whitening strips show results for approximately four months, while toothpaste will only keep your teeth pearly under routine maintenance. 

Though expensive initially, the long-lasting results you receive from professional whitening are priceless. Since a dentist polishes your teeth before applying the bleaching agent, the whitening is deeper and more effective. The effects can last up to three years with proper maintenance and avoidance of teeth-staining substances.

If you’re interested in getting safe, professional teeth whitening, visit the Dental Clinic of Onalaska in La Crosse County, WI. From veneers to sealants and extractions, this clinic provides a variety of dental services to cater to your oral health. Their team accepts major insurances and CareCredit to accommodate finances and provide you with the optimal dental care experience. Call (608) 783-3341 to make an appointment or visit their website for more information about their services.