Do you wish you could have a brighter smile? You’re not alone. Most people today struggle with discolored teeth, and one of the best ways to treat this is with teeth whitening treatment. While you can certainly visit your dentist for this improvement, you might also try getting a kit from your local store. But which kind of product gives the best results? Read on to learn the differences between over-the-counter and professional teeth whitening!
How Does Teeth Whitening Treatment Work?
Most whitening products use a peroxide solution with varying strength. This bleaching agent is able to lift stains and improve the brightness of your smile. By applying the whitening gel on trays, you can coat your teeth in the substance about an hour each day for up to 10 days. The effectiveness depends on how much peroxide content is in the product—the strongest ones having about 40% peroxide while the mildest contain as little as 10%.
Store-Bought vs Professional Whitening
While both OTC and professional teeth whitening products consist of similar ingredients, your dentist will always have the medical-grade items. Store-bought kits offer some improvements to your smile, but they also contain the lowest concentrations of peroxide. This means you won’t get the same effective results as you would with your dentist’s procedure. Additionally, they would provide you with personalized trays that will treat your specific bite pattern, giving a more thorough treatment overall.
Which Whitening Treatment Is the Most Cost Effective?
It’s understandable to opt for over-the-counter teeth whitening kits, as they can be more affordable and convenient. However, with a mild peroxide concentration, you’ll likely have to keep buying these products to maintain a radiant smile. Although professional whitening might have the higher initial price, they’ll provide a more enduring solution for tooth discoloration. With a stronger and more lasting result, you can save yourself money in the long run!
Store-bought teeth whitening has its merits, but visiting your dentist for a professional treatment will give you the better and safer deal. Speak with your doctor if you’re interested, and they’ll be more than happy to help you achieve a brighter smile.
About the Author
Dr. Maria Maiorino is a proud member of the Seattle Study Club, and the American and New Jersey Dental Associations. She earned her dental degree from the Temple University School of Dentistry and continues to improve her skills through advanced training courses. With her expert team, she provides a number of dental treatments, including teeth whitening to enhance your pearly whites. If you want to know more about teeth whitening or would like to schedule a visit, visit her website or call her at 609-324-9500.