Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening?

Movie star smiles used to be reserved for the rich and famous, but those days are long gone. Thankfully, professional teeth whitening is more widely accessible and more effective than ever. Stubborn stains (such as those related to using tobacco products) can now be removed so you too can have a dazzling smile (regardless of how much of a red carpet lies before you).

Why would you choose professional teeth whitening in a dental office, as opposed to an at-home cosmetic teeth whitening kit? And what are some of the things you should know before you undergo this procedure?

Keep reading and find out more.

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening offers numerous benefits over at-home whitening agents. Some of the most important ones are related to oral health and the need professional supervision for the procedure, while others are related to actual results.

Here’s what you need to know about this:

Long-lasting Results Compared to OTC Kits

Unlike over-the-counter kits, dental professional-applied teeth whitening treatments provide results that last much longer. This means fewer touch-ups and a brighter smile for months to come.

Safe and Controlled Procedures

With professional whitening, safety is a top priority. When you go into a dental office to have your teeth whitened, the whole procedure is carefully monitored by dental experts. This reduces the risk of irritation or damage to your teeth and gums.

Customized Treatment Plan

Every smile is unique, and professional tooth whitening treatments are tailored by your dental professional to your specific needs. This ensures optimal results that suit your teeth and desired level of brightness.

Types of Professional Teeth Whitening Systems

Looking to brighten your smile? You should know that not all options available out there are entirely efficient (or even legal).

Are there any illegal teeth whitening procedures?

Well, yes, and no. Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are legal as long as you purchase them from legitimate sellers. But beauty salons doing tooth whitening treatments aren’t quite legal – and probably unsafe in most cases too.

Here are some popular teeth whitening options that are 100% legal, safe, and effective:

In-office Treatments: ZOOM Whitening

ZOOM Whitening is a professional treatment performed by dentists to deliver fast, dramatic results. Using a special light-activated gel, it can whiten your teeth by several shades in just one session.

At-home Whitening Kits from Dentists

These at-home kits are custom-made by your dentist to fit your teeth perfectly, allowing for safe and effective whitening at home. They include professional-grade whitening gel for gradual but noticeable results over a few weeks.

Alternative Options: Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a long-term solution for a brighter, flawless smile. These thin, custom-made shells cover the front of your teeth, hiding discoloration while also correcting minor imperfections.

Professional Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Kits

When considering a solution, it’s important to evaluate its effectiveness, safety, and cost over time. Here are the top three criteria to think of when deciding between professional whitening vs. over-the-counter kits:

Efficacy and Duration of Results

Understanding how well a solution works and how long the results last is key. Consistent, long-term outcomes often indicate higher reliability.

Safety and Regulation

Safety should never be compromised, and adherence to regulations ensures the product or service meets necessary standards. Always check for official certifications or approvals to verify compliance.

Cost-effectiveness Over Time

A solution’s true value lies in its ability to deliver results without excessive costs. Evaluate whether initial expenses are justified by long-term savings or benefits.

Considerations for Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is not a must for your oral hygiene routine, but it can make a huge difference when you want your smile to be brighter and more radiant. Just like with any other procedure, though, there are considerations to keep in mind:

Potential Discomfort and Tooth Sensitivity

Professional tooth whitening may cause mild discomfort, often described as temporary tooth sensitivity.

Some individuals might experience heightened sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold foods and drinks. However, dentists can provide desensitizing treatments or recommend specific products to alleviate any discomfort during and after the tooth whitening procedure.

Treatment Duration and Frequency

Sessions are typically quick, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the area treated and the specific bleaching agents used. Most people need 6-8 sessions spaced a few weeks apart for optimal results.

Affordability and Payment Options

The cost varies based on the treatment area and clinic, but many providers offer package deals or payment plans. While it’s an upfront investment, the long-term savings on waxing or shaving can make it worthwhile.

Impact on Oral Health and Mental Well-being

A beautiful smile can have a big impact on your confidence and overall well-being. And while, as mentioned, tooth whitening is not a compulsory procedure, it can still have health benefits. Some of them include (but are not limited to):

Improved Appearance and Dental Hygiene

Straight, well-aligned teeth not only look great but are also easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Better oral hygiene leads to healthier teeth and a brighter smile.

Positive Effect on Mental Health

A confident smile can boost self-esteem and positively impact your mental health. Feeling good about your smile encourages more social interactions and reduces self-consciousness.

Contribution to a Complete Smile Makeover

Aligned teeth are a key part of achieving a flawless smile makeover. They complement other dental treatments, creating a cohesive and polished appearance.

Conclusion: Cosmetic Dentistry or Not?

Home teeth whitening kits are everywhere: from TikTok to your favourite cosmetics shop. Your dental needs may be different, though and a basic over the counter cosmetic treatment may just not be efficient. It may also cause bigger problems than the ones you want to solve.

Personalised care, provided by actual dental professionals, is priceless. When you walk into our dental practice for a tooth whitening, we will provide you with a full assessment and make the best suggestions both in terms of aesthetics and actual oral health. More even, we will provide you with the best solution for you, from the specific bleaching gel used to doing everything to avoid gum irritation and other side effects.