Teeth whitening treatments provided by dentists are a more effective and safer approach to improving the color of teeth than over-the-counter alternatives. These custom whitening trays are made from an impression of the patient's mouth, so they fit properly.
Teeth whitening trays can also be purchased over-the-counter, but those are typically one-size-fits-all appliances. They rarely fit well, which can lead to uneven whitening or irritation.
Teeth whitening with custom mouth trays
Teeth whitening treatments usually start with the dentist taking a close look at the patient's teeth to find any existing dental issues. Whitening damaged teeth can lead to severe teeth sensitivity and pain. In some cases, it can lead to permanent damage to gum tissues and teeth.
The dentist will also evaluate the patient's teeth to determine the cause of their stains. Whitening treatments are great on stains caused by smoking, foods/beverages and aging. Other types of stains, like those caused by tooth decay and tetracycline antibiotics, rarely go away after whitening treatments. These types of stains can be covered up with restorations like dental bonding, veneers, and crowns.
Once the dentist has cleared the patient for teeth whitening treatments, the patient is asked to bite down on a mold that leaves an impression of their teeth. The impression is sent to a lab that makes mouth trays and other dental restorations. It takes about two weeks for the customized whitening trays to be ready.
The benefits of using custom whitening trays
A custom whitening tray fits well on a patient's teeth, which leads to improved whitening as their teeth are evenly immersed in the bleaching agent. The mouth tray also helps prevent the bleaching solution from getting into the person's gums during treatment. The hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen carbamide in such products can irritate gum tissues or damage them.
Custom teeth whitening trays also come with the added benefit of having a dentist explain how to properly use it. These are long-lasting appliances that can last the rest of the patient's life if they do not have major dental work done.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry states that custom whitening trays are the safer option when whitening teeth. They are effective at keeping the bleaching product exactly where it needs to be: on the patient's teeth.
Maintaining the results of teeth whitening treatments
Teeth are constantly bombarded by things that can stain them, which is why most people develop stains and discoloration on their teeth over time. Whitening treatments can restore teeth to their original color or make them whiter. Here are simple things that patients can do to maintain their teeth's new color:
- Practice good dental hygiene, which helps prevent new stains
- Use whitening toothpaste a couple of times per week
- Avoid foods/beverages with strong colors, like pasta sauce and red wine
- Perform maintenance whitening treatments as needed
Get your custom mouth tray
Call or visit our Escondido clinic if you need a custom mouth tray for whitening treatments. Our dentist can provide you with a complete at-home whitening kit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.escondidofamilydentistry.com or call Escondido Family Dental Care & Specialty Center at (760) 747-7223 for an appointment in our Escondido office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Escondido, CA.
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FAQs
The benefits of using custom whitening trays
A custom whitening tray fits well on a patient's teeth, which leads to improved whitening as their teeth are evenly immersed in the bleaching agent. The mouth tray also helps prevent the bleaching solution from getting into the person's gums during treatment.
What is the safest professional teeth whitening method? ›
laser teeth whitening is the safest, quickest, and most effective option among the types of teeth-whitening treatments available. However, there are ultimately several ways to whiten teeth, and the most suitable option will depend on your timeline, budget, and priorities, as well as the nature of the discoloration.
Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening? ›
Tooth and gum sensitivity and pain
Store-bought products may contain abrasive substances like hydrogen peroxide, which can be effective if used minimally, but in large doses can cause erosion of teeth's enamel and shrinkage of the gums.
What is the bad side of teeth whitening? ›
The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results. However, most patients do not experience any notable side effects from professional teeth whitening, as the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes risk.
Are whitening trays from dentists worth it? ›
Teeth whitening trays from a dentist are vastly superior to any supposed teeth whitening solutions available at the local store. Your dentist will take the time necessary to build a fully customized teeth whitening tray for your unique mouth.
Are whitening trays worth it? ›
More affordable than professional whitening
At-home teeth whitening trays are typically a more affordable solution than getting whitening treatments performed in-office by the dentist. These kits are usually more expensive than over-the-counter products, but they are safer on teeth and lead to better results.
What is the number 1 recommended teeth whitening? ›
The Crest Whitening Emulsion with LED Light stands out as the best overall teeth whitening product due to its ease of use, effectiveness, and comfort. Its simple, straightforward process, coupled with the ability to carry on with normal activities during treatment, makes it highly convenient and user-friendly.
Is there any teeth whitening that doesn't damage enamel? ›
Many products, like gel trays and whitening strips, use ingredients such as carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide to lighten your teeth. These are safe for your gums and enamel in small amounts — as long as they're high-quality chemicals and used as directed.
Is there a way to whiten your teeth without damaging them? ›
Many at-home tooth whitening methods have the potential to cause harm but your dentist can give you trays and gel containing carbamide peroxide. The trays are custom-fitted to protect your gums and your dentist makes sure that your mouth is healthy enough before you get started.
Who shouldn't get their teeth whitened? ›
Children under 16 years of age. Patients with periodontal disease, tooth decay, cavities and exposed roots. People who are allergic to teeth bleaching whitening agents like peroxide. Individuals with sensitive teeth.
You may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are allergic to peroxide, you will not be able to have your teeth whitened, since peroxide is the active ingredient in whitening systems. If you have a lot of fillings, dental bonding or crowns, you may not be a candidate for dental whitening.
How to whiten teeth over 60? ›
Bleaching Trays
Compared to commercial products, whitening trays from your dentist are stronger and much safer for seniors in particular. As you age, your gums and teeth can become more sensitive. Your dentist can first evaluate your oral health to determine if you are eligible to receive teeth whitening.
Can yellow teeth become white again? ›
What Can Be Done to Whiten Yellow Teeth? If you're looking for a radical change in the coloring of your teeth, you need professional-grade whitening to get the job done. Your cosmetic dentist can provide treatment that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes years of stains with a powerful bleaching agent.
Why do my teeth hurt so much after whitening? ›
The reason for this discomfort is that the bleaching agent, whether it be hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, causes a chemical reaction on the tooth surface. This, in turn, increases the porosity of the enamel and makes it more sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks.
How often should you whiten your teeth? ›
How often teeth whitening treatments are recommended by dentists. Professional teeth whitening performed in the dentist's office is recommended once every year to every 18 months, depending on how long the results last. At-home kits can be used as often as once every four to six months.
How long does it take to whiten teeth with custom trays? ›
In regards to how long trays need to be worn, patients should expect to wear them until the teeth have reached the right shade of white. In some cases, it can take a few weeks or for serious stains, it can take up to a year.
How often do you use custom whitening trays? ›
Wearing the trays once every 2 months will keep your teeth at a very stable colour indefinitely, however if you want to keep them at an even brighter white, you may want to wear the trays once a month. Whitening gel, for maintenance, is available from the practice.
How much are professional teeth whitening trays? ›
Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments
| Product/Treatment | Minimum Price | Maximum Price |
|---|
| In-Office Bleaching | $500 | $1,000 |
| Custom Dental Whitening Trays | $150 | $600 |
| KöR Whitening | $500 | $1,200 |
| Laser Whitening | $500 | $1,000 |
Jan 14, 2023
Trays provide more coverage than some teeth whitening strips. May contain a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide and other chemicals for near-immediate results. Permanently remove light and tough stains. Many kits come with enough gel for multiple, separate treatments, which saves on costs.
