There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you. The best way to begin any teeth-whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your doctor about the differences betweenin-office professional whitening and at-home whitening.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office. During an appointment, your dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes, and you will be able to see results immediately.
At Wambaugh Dental, we offer a range of treatment options in our office. One example of this is opalescence treatments. We are proud to offer this treatment option, allowing you to get the beautiful white teeth you’ve always wanted.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
There are a wide array of treatment options that you can use at home. At Wambaugh Dental, we offer a range of options, such as:
Tray Whitening
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes ten to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
Paint-On Teeth Whitening
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening product is commonly referred to as a “paint-on” teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over-the-counter and generally are less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel that is applied to the tooth using a small brush. Paint-on whitening gel hardens into a film that coats the teeth and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth-whitening regimen, it is wise to consult with a dental professional before use.
Teeth-Whitening Strips
Teeth-whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic (polyethylene) strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Whitening strip kits come with two types of strips: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your teeth and gently pressing the strips to ensure contact with all your teeth. Teeth-whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. The duration of treatment will vary.
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
The least expensive options are whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpaste and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materials used in professional whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpaste affects surface stains and will mildly lighten your teeth.
Contact Wambaugh Dental
The best way to determine which teeth-whitening solution is best for you is to reach out to your dentist at Wambaugh Dental. Our kind and compassionate dentists will work with you to determine what solution will work best for you. We also offer a range of additional solutions to ensure your oral health, including:
- Preventative care services
- Cracked teeth treatment
- Endodontic services
- Implant services
- Traumatic injury treatment
If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our practice by calling 281.501.7849, or contact us online to schedule an appointment.