How is Teeth Whitening from a Dentist Different?

You have probably seen ads for teeth whitening products and services that you can buy over the counter or get from a dentist. Teeth whitening done by a dentist will usually take more time than using an at-home kit because it requires visits to the dentist.

However, there are some benefits that come with professional teeth whitening, like getting rid of any stains on your teeth in one visit and receiving custom trays and toothpaste made specifically for your needs.

What are the Benefits?

There are many benefits associated with having professional dental services done, including:

Getting rid of stains on one visit that would ordinarily require weeks and months of home care

Customizing toothpaste made specifically for your needs

Receiving treatments from professionals who know how to get results without damaging gum tissue or causing sensitivity issues

How is Teeth Whitening Done in a Dentist’s Office?

A dentist will typically take impressions of your teeth so they can make a custom-made mouthpiece. The mouthpieces are put in the patient’s mouth for about an hour at a time, two or three times per week, to whiten their teeth.

The mouthpiece is made of a material that absorbs hydrogen peroxide, which causes teeth to turn whiter in color.

While some home kits use a similar system, it is not as effective because teeth are exposed to less peroxide, and the concentration of gel in a mouthpiece can be higher.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Some patients worry about the safety of using peroxide on their teeth, but dentists use a low concentration of the substance to avoid any damage.

It is important to have your dentist “inject” peroxide into the mouthpiece in order to whiten teeth effectively.

Peroxide does not cause tooth sensitivity because it doesn’t come into contact with the sensitive layer of gum tissue that contains nerve endings.

Whitening also has been shown to improve oral health by reducing plaque buildup and strengthening enamel.

As you can see, teeth whitening is not just a cosmetic procedure but has some practical oral health benefits as well. Having it done at a dentist near you is the safer option for whiter teeth.