There are a lot of options available for teeth whitening today. Choosing between over-the-counter teeth whitening products or professional teeth whitening can be difficult. Professional teeth whitening is generally more effective, but, like any treatment, there are advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of professional teeth whitening to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure performed by a licensed dentist. It involves the use of concentrated bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth. Professional whitening products use similar ingredients as at-home kits, but they contain higher concentrations of these ingredients. This is because dentists know how to use these products safely; improper usage of whitening products can actually damage your teeth and cause tooth sensitivity.
At BDG, we use the Opalescence™ Boost™ professional teeth whitening process to safely and effectively brighten your teeth.
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The Pros of Professional Teeth Whitening
1. Faster and More Effective Results
Professional teeth whitening delivers noticeable results in a short amount of time—often in just one visit. In-office treatments use high-concentration bleaching agents that aren’t available in over-the-counter products. Combined with tools like specialized lights or lasers, professional whitening can lighten your teeth by several shades in as little as an hour.
2. Customization and Precision
When you choose professional whitening, your dentist can customize the treatment according to your unique needs. This includes adjusting the strength of the whitening agent and targeting specific areas of discoloration. Dentists can also protect sensitive areas, such as the gums, to prevent irritation.
3. Safer Procedure
Because the treatment is performed by a dental professional, professional whitening is safer than DIY methods. Dentists take precautions to minimize side effects like tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, ensuring that the procedure is safe and comfortable.
4. Long-Lasting Results
The results of professional whitening typically last longer than at-home kits or DIY methods, especially when paired with good oral hygiene. Dentists use high-quality products that penetrate deeper into the enamel to remove embedded stains, creating a brighter and longer-lasting outcome.
5. Addresses Stubborn Stains
Professional whitening is highly effective at treating tough stains caused by things like smoking or tobacco products, or drinking coffee, tea, or red wine. Over-the-counter products often struggle to remove these deep stains, but the potent bleaching agents used by dentists can achieve significant improvements, even on discolored teeth.
Interested in professional teeth whitening for a dazzling smile?
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The Cons of Professional Teeth Whitening
1. Cost
One of the main drawbacks of professional teeth whitening is the price. In-office treatments can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on your location and the type of treatment used. Though low-interest or zero-interest payment plans can help you budget for these treatments, it might not be possible if you are on a very tight budget.
2. Temporary Tooth Sensitivity
Professional teeth whitening can cause temporary tooth sensitivity, especially for individuals who already have sensitive teeth. This occurs because the bleaching agents penetrate the enamel, reaching the underlying dentin, which contains tiny nerve endings. While the sensitivity typically subsides within a few days, it can be uncomfortable for some patients. Dentists often recommend using desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatments to alleviate this side effect.
3. Not Suitable for All Types of Stains
Professional whitening works best on surface stains (extrinsic stains) caused by food, drinks, or tobacco. However, it is less effective on intrinsic stains, which are discolorations within the tooth caused by trauma, certain medications, or aging. For these cases, alternative cosmetic treatments like veneers or bonding may be more appropriate.
4. Maintenance is Required
While professional whitening results are long-lasting, they are not permanent. You’ll need to maintain your results by avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks and practicing good oral hygiene. Dentists may also recommend periodic touch-ups, which can add to the overall cost and time commitment.
5. Results Vary
When considering professional teeth whitening, many people assume that their teeth will emerge from treatment pearly white. Though professional whitening can lighten teeth up to 10 shades whiter or more, this is not the case for everyone and results are not guaranteed. There are many factors that determine how effectively teeth whitening will work, professionally or not, so having realistic expectations for treatment is important when considering these services.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Right for You?
Deciding whether professional teeth whitening is right for you depends on your goals, budget, and oral health. If you’re looking for fast, noticeable results and are willing to invest in professional care, in-office whitening is an excellent choice. However, if you’re sensitive to cost or only need minor improvements, at-home kits may be a more practical solution. It’s always best to consult with your dentist to discuss your options and determine the most effective treatment for your needs.
By weighing the pros and cons of professional teeth whitening, you can make an informed decision about whether this popular cosmetic treatment is right for you. If you live in Las Vegas, Hederson, Laughlin, or surrounding areas, make an appointment with a BDG dentist near you to learn more about professional teeth whitening.
