What is Better – Professional Or At Home Teeth Whitening?

A majority of many adults in Australia and the world at large self-consciously hide their smile due to one common reason: tooth discolouration. Ever since teeth whitening gained popularity around two decades ago, there has been the introduction of countless teeth whitening methods. Some are even sold over-the-counter and at your local drug store.
For those who are embarrassed with their smile, this is good news. But, which teeth whitening method is better? At home teeth whitening or professional teeth whitening done by your dentist? Read on to find out.

Home Remedies for Teeth Whitening

With the emphasis of a brighter looking smile being more apparent than ever, the market for at-home teeth whitening solutions have significantly increased. These products can provide a less costly and easy to use alternative to professional teeth whitening. Here are the most common at-home remedies for teeth whitening.

– Whitening Strips

Whitening strips are widely sold at a reasonable price and are also easy to use. All that you have to do is apply the clear adhesive strips on your teeth for thirty minutes multiple times throughout the day. The shade of your teeth whitens with your persistence. Generally, these strips contain a low amount of hydrogen peroxide that helps in oxidising the enamel.

– Whitening Gum

Whitening gum does not contain any bleaching properties. They are used to prevent plaque build-up and dark stains. They contain abrasive agents which are used to scratch off dark stains on the surface of the teeth.

– Brush On Whitening

These products are gels that contain low concentrated hydrogen peroxide used to bleach the teeth overnight. The user is supposed to apply the gel on the surface of the teeth and let it sit there over the night.

Professional Teeth Whitening
Having your teeth whitened professionally by a dentist is the most preferred method by both patients and dentists. Your dentist uses stronger whitening agents to provide better results faster. Having your teeth whitened by a dentist lessens the risk of gum and teeth irritation. Here are different methods of professional teeth whitening:

– In Office Whitening

With this method, the dentist applies a highly concentrated whitening gel that is not available over-the-counter. Once the dentist applies the gel to the teeth, intense light is used to activate the chemicals present in the gel. This process breaks down hydrogen peroxide to release oxygen. The oxygen then enters the teeth enamel bleaching all the existing coloured substances.

– Take Home Whitening

The dentist will give you a custom-made mouth tray to take at home. He will also provide you with a whitening gel. Any time you are using this method, all you have to do is fill the trays with a specific amount of the whitening gel, wear the trays on your mouth and leave them for about an hour.

Bottom Line: Which Teeth Whitening Method is better for me?

Professional teeth whitening is the most preferred method by most people. Whitening your teeth at home can be intimidating since it requires a long-term commitment of regular use and attention to details. Also, this method has many risks including sensitivity.
On the other hand, professional teeth whitening is handled in a controlled environment by a highly trained professional. Results are of a higher quality and are experienced immediately.
Are you looking to have a whiter and brighter smile? Visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Clinic. We use the latest teeth whitening method known as Pola technology. This method is sure to brighten your teeth in less than one hour. Give us a call and make an appointment.