Red wine, beets, tea, coffee, curry, and cherry juice are among the foods and beverages leaving teeth discolored, with habits such as smoking also affecting your smile’s brilliance. Teeth whitening restores your grin so you aren’t avoiding photo opportunities. But while DIY home kits can help, they do not match the power of professional teeth whitening services from your dentist—as the guide below explains.

What Are the Differences?

Unlike customized whitening treatments featuring up to 35% peroxide depending on the patient’s needs, home kits contain 3% peroxide, which doesn’t carry the same results.

Home kits also feature messy strips or trays that may not cover every tooth, causing an uneven smile. In professional treatments, the dentist adjusts the amount each tooth receives based on your current coloring for an even look.

In-office teeth whitening takes less time than home treatments. While you have to wear home kit strips for 30 minutes for seven days, professional services whiten teeth in an hour or less. There’s also less risk of gum irritation since the dentist knows how to apply the product more precisely and safely.

Should You Use DIY Kits In-Between Appointments?

With proper maintenance, the results of professional teeth whitening can last for up to three years, making DIY treatments irrelevant. However, if you continue to eat foods or engage in habits that stain teeth, touch-ups might be more necessary. Talk to your dentist about using home kits in light of current staining and your overall dental health.

If they think you should avoid further whitening, they can recommend other tips for maintaining a whiter, healthier smile. This may include consuming celery, apples, and other foods that naturally clean the teeth, and drinking plenty of water to flush staining agents from your mouth.

Schedule teeth whitening with Comfort Center for Dentistry in Kendall County, TX. Led by Comfort-born Dr. Kendra Wren, the general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry center offers customized solutions that keep smiles healthy and beautiful. Call (830) 995-5047 today to make your appointment or visit the practice online for more about cosmetic dentistry. Like the Facebook page for additional dental care tips.