Here is Why Teeth Whitening at The Dentist Produces Better Results

If you want a better smile, try teeth whitening.  Often, we are asked “What is the difference between a teeth whitening solution being offered at our office, versus one that is available over the counter at most drug or grocery stores?” With whitening becoming more popular, there are an increasing number of advertisements selling products to whiten your teeth.  It is important to know the critical differences between a product that you might buy at the store and the type of whitening we can provide. These differences have nothing to do with prices since, with the vast range of products out there; you can find a product to suit your budget.

Customization for your teeth: When you buy a store bought, or over the counter solution it is important to remember that these are mass produced solutions that do not have a particular focus on customization. The tray used to hold the gel, for example, is a one size fits all and designed to go over pretty much any teeth. This is a cost effective way of getting a product out, and can suit your needs of a cheaper solution. By the same token, however, the tray has not been designed to fit over your particular mouth.  It does not address any specific differences you have with regard to the size, shape, and placement of your teeth. On the other hand when you have us, your dentist, give you a teeth whitening solution, the process begins with the designing of a custom tray that is specifically molded to fit your teeth. This allows for the best fit and ensures that the gel used goes only on your teeth to give you the best results without potential for irritation of the gum or soft tissue. Exposure of your gums to the hydrogen peroxide solution in whitening agents can lead to irritation.  By designing a try that fits perfectly, the risk of irritation is greatly reduced.

The teeth whitening solution: There are limits on what a commercial company can put into the whitening gel. The whitening solution that you find available over the counter typically has between 10% and 22% carbamide peroxide. This means that you are getting the equivalent of 3% hydrogen peroxide, which is the primary chemical used to whiten your teeth. Effectively this is a slower, and longer, way to whiten your teeth. On the other hand when we, as your dentist, whiten your teeth we can use a much stronger solution. Dentists have at their disposal teeth whitening gels that have between 15% and 43% hydrogen peroxide. This does two things:

1. It allows us to customize a solution to meet your particular needs based on what your mouth can handle and also based on the type of stain we are trying to remove. 
2. It gives us the flexibility to apply the solution directly to the enamel for a more effective solution that works faster and gets your teeth whiter. 

While using a store-bought solution may be the right answer for you, we always advise that you visit our office prior to choosing a teeth whitening solution.  This way you have all the options to make an educated decision about your smile.