Deciding Between Professional Or At-Home Teeth Whitening

If you are not happy with the color of your teeth, you're likely looking to take steps to fix it. There are plenty of at-home solutions that you can try to get your teeth a few shades whiter, but there are professional options as well. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, which is why it helps to know more information about both procedures so you can make an informed decision.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

When you choose an at-home teeth whitening solution, know that the whitening agents that are provided will be less powerful compared to what a dentist can offer you. This is because you are not using the product while supervised by a professional, and a powerful product used incorrectly can cause problems. It can lead to discolored gums and skin irritation, which are side effects that you would rather not have to deal with. If used incorrectly, a strong whitening agent can also damage the enamel on your teeth, which is something that cannot easily be fixed.

The process of using an at-home teeth whitening solution can also take weeks to get you the results that you desire. If you are looking for a quick whitening solution for an upcoming event, like a reunion or wedding, it may not work fast enough for you.

The advantages of using at-home teeth whitening are that the products can work for getting your teeth whiter, and you can do it all in the convenience of your own home for an affordable price.

Professional Teeth Whitening

When you visit a dentist, you are going to have access to powerful bleach solutions that can provide instant results by the time you leave their office. Since it is handled by a professional, it reduces the risk of the whitening agent being used incorrectly. Your dentist also has specialized tools to help the whitening process be as quick as possible. This includes lights that help activate the whitening agent and make it more effective than anything you would have access to in your home.

While professional whitening does cost more than the at-home alternative, you may find yourself more satisfied with the results. When you walk out of the office with whiter teeth, you'll instantly be able to appreciate how well the whitening procedure worked for you.

Have questions about teeth whitening? Be sure to reach out to a local cosmetic dentist for more information.