Why Teeth Whitening is Best Done at the Dentist (2024)

April 9, 2021

If you are deciding whether to get your teeth whitened at home or at the dentist, it's important to consider the differences between the two options. While at-home teeth whitening costs less than in-office whitening, the results that can be achieved with professional teeth whitening are far superior and involve less risk than what you can get with over-the-counter or at-home methods.

Why Teeth Whitening is Best Done at the Dentist (1)

1. Fast Results in 1 Hour

Regardless of the method you choose, both at-home and in-office solutions will have hydrogen peroxide, which is the bleaching agent. In-office systems contain 15% to 43% peroxide, while at-home methods contain 3% to 20% peroxide. The higher peroxide content of the bleaching agent that is used at the dentist whitens your teeth better and in a shorter amount of time.

In addition to a high peroxide content, dentists also use heat or light to further speed up the whitening process and intensify the whitening results. So, while at-home methods typically take weeks or even months to see any significant results, with professional teeth whitening, you can achieve a brighter smile that is 2 to 8 shades lighter within just one hour.

2. Longer-Lasting, BrighterSmile

One of the most significant advantages of getting your teeth whitened at the dentist is the treatment oversight before and during treatment to guarantee good results that you cannot get with at-home methods.

First, at the dentist, prior to teeth whitening, the dental professional will examine your teeth to make sure you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. If you have any visible restorations, they will not get bleached and may leave your teeth looking discolored or stained. The dental professional will be able to examine your teeth thoroughly and determine whether bleaching is right for you. This can avoid any potential less-than-perfect results.

In addition, the dental professional will clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar prior to applying the bleaching agent to optimize results. During treatment, the dental professional will also monitor the whitening procedure to make sure nothing goes wrong and the treatment is as painless as possible, with minimal tooth sensitivity and gum irritation following treatment.

Unlike most at-home whitening methods (i.e. whitening toothpastes, baking soda, etc.), which remove plaque and discoloration on the surface of the teeth, in-office professional whitening penetrates teeth from within, where age and medication-related discoloration occurs. This results in far more dramatic and longer-lasting results than with at-home systems. (It is important to note that, depending on your individual case, your teeth may require more than one session to see dramatic results.)

3. Less Risk of Tooth Sensitivity and Damage

Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation following teeth whitening is a common side effect. When the whitening gel is left on the teeth for too long, it dehydrates the teeth and causes sensitivity. If the peroxide agent gets on your gums, it can irritate them and cause pain when eating certain foods. It's much more likely that the patient will misuse the at-home whitening systems that will lead to sensitivity and pain, and less-than-desirable results. On the contrary, at the dentist, the dental professional will prepare your mouth, teeth and gums before applying the bleaching agent to protect them from harm. A dental professional performing whitening knows how to avoid damaging the teeth in the process and how to yield the best outcome.

In summary, considering the health risks associated with at-home whitening methods and the numerous advantages of professional teeth whitening, the latter is undoubtedly the better option.

Are you interested in professional teeth whitening? Call our office (925) 705-7093 or request a teeth whitening consultation by clicking the button below and filling out your information. We hope to see you in soon!

Why Teeth Whitening is Best Done at the Dentist (2)

Relevant Readings

Achieve a Brighter Smile Faster With Professional Teeth Whitening

Which Teeth Whitening Method Should You Choose?

Causes of Tooth Discoloration and How to Prevent and Treat It

Teeth Whitening or Dental Work? What Should Come First?

Tags:teeth whiteningcosmetic dentistrytooth sensitivitytooth stains

Why Teeth Whitening is Best Done at the Dentist (2024)

FAQs

Why Teeth Whitening is Best Done at the Dentist? ›

Safety and comfort: When you whiten your teeth at the dentist, they will take measures to ensure that your gums are protected from the bleaching agents. They will also use a stronger bleaching agent than what is available over the counter, so you will see better results in a shorter amount of time.

Why is teeth whitening best done at the dentist? ›

It's much more likely that the patient will misuse the at-home whitening systems that will lead to sensitivity and pain, and less-than-desirable results. On the contrary, at the dentist, the dental professional will prepare your mouth, teeth and gums before applying the bleaching agent to protect them from harm.

Is the dentist the best way to whiten teeth? ›

Teeth whitening done by your dentist can get teeth brighter faster. The bleaching solution is usually much stronger than that in at-home kits. Also, your dentist can use heat, light, or a combination of the two to speed and intensify the whitening process.

Should teeth whitening only be done by a dentist? ›

Unqualified Whitening is a Health Hazard

While your esthetician may claim to be qualified in teeth whitening, the procedure is actually banned from being performed outside of a dentist's office in most states.

Is teeth whitening recommended by dentists? ›

Your dentist will advise you whether whitening is right for you. It may be that teeth whitening isn't suitable, for example if you have gum disease or crowns.

What is the most effective 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.

What is the advantages of whitening teeth in a dental office? ›

Highly Effective Results in a Short Amount of Time:

Opting for in-office teeth whitening, you could experience drastic results seen within one visit. This is a far more efficient way to brighten your smile than at-home treatments like trays and strips, which may take weeks or even months!

Can old yellow teeth be whitened? ›

It's natural for teeth to appear darker as they age, but a bleaching product with hydrogen peroxide or urea peroxide can help turn back the clock – and a whitening toothpaste is an easy way to get a jump-start.

Is it better to whiten your teeth at the dentist or DIY? ›

Choosing a non-professional teeth whitening treatment can carry a higher risk of adverse effects, including damage to your teeth and gums, and even a worsening of your discoloration. By far, the safest and most effective option is to have your teeth professionally whitened by your dentist.

What is the new technology for teeth whitening? ›

Scientists have developed a near-infrared (NIR) light method to safely whiten teeth with gels that have significantly reduced hydrogen peroxide content. This new technology is predicted to usher in a shift in the cosmetic dentistry industry.

Does swishing hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth? ›

A simple hydrogen peroxide mouthwash may help remove mild stains. However, a person should avoid leaving hydrogen peroxide solutions on their teeth for extended periods. For people who have darker stains, stronger whitening options are available both over the counter and from a dentist.

How to get super white teeth? ›

For your benefit, we've provided you with seven different ways to naturally whiten your teeth.
  1. Eat Strawberries. ...
  2. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables. ...
  3. Brush After You Eat or Drink. ...
  4. Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
  5. Apply Coconut Oil. ...
  6. Brush Your Tongue. ...
  7. Use Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide.

Can normal dentist do teeth whitening? ›

There are many effective methods for whitening the teeth. But it is always ideal to schedule a dental checkup before opting for any method. Your family dentist can help you have not only a whiter, brighter and more attractive smile but one that is also healthy.

Why is dentist whitening better? ›

The main advantage of professional teeth whitening is that it's more effective than at-home treatments. This is because the bleaching agent used in professional treatments is usually stronger than over-the-counter products.

What do dentists recommend to whiten teeth? ›

Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are commonly used in whitening interventions and can readily permeate dental hard tissues.

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 dentist teeth whitening better than at home? ›

It's important to note that DIY whitening isn't as strong as in-office whitening, which is why it takes much longer to see the desired result. Before starting any type of whitening treatment, you should make sure your teeth and gums are healthy and speak with your dentist to compare teeth whitening options.

What makes a good candidate for teeth whitening? ›

If you struggle with dull or yellowed teeth that cannot be easily whitened with regular brushing and flossing, then you are a great candidate for teeth whitening treatment. Teeth whitening is suitable for any type of discoloration, including age-related yellowness and stains caused by coffee and cigarettes.

Does cleaning your teeth at the dentist make them whiter? ›

The short answer is: no. It's important to clarify that these deep cleanings alone do not directly whiten your teeth. Professional cleanings focus on removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains, which can definitely improve the appearance of your smile and give your teeth a cleaner and brighter appearance.

How many times should I whiten my teeth at the dentist? ›

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.

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