Teeth whitening has become immensely popular in recent years as more people seek to achieve a radiant, white smile. The American Association of Orthodontics found that 88.8% of patients requested a teeth whitening procedure. Another study reveals that the teeth whitening industry is experiencing significant growth, reaching a value of USD 6.9 billion in 2021 and expected to expand at a CAGR of 5% from 2022 to 2030.
If you are considering teeth whitening, you have two options: professional and DIY methods. While DIY teeth whitening involves using over-the-counter whitening strips or toothpaste, professional treatments are offered by dentists. Though both have some pros and cons, it is important to understand the differences between the two so you can decide which one is right for you.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
The teeth whitening procedure is relatively straightforward. The steps involved may differ depending on the product chosen and whether the whitening is done at home or the dentist's office. Teeth whitening products typically contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which help break down stains and decrease color intensity, resulting in a brighter smile.
Do Teeth Whitening Work on All Teeth?
Not all teeth can be effectively whitened, as certain whitening products won’t address all types of staining and discoloration. For instance, yellowed teeth can be easily whitened, brown teeth may not show significant improvement, and teeth with gray shades may not bleach.
Furthermore, whitening treatments are ineffective on dental appliances such as crowns, veneers, caps, or fillings. If you have tooth discoloration from medication or trauma, bleaching your teeth will not achieve the desired results. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your dentist to determine the most suitable procedure for your teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening Options
● Whitening Toothpaste: It is considered the mildest whitening treatment, suitable for individuals with sensitive teeth. It works to eliminate surface stains on teeth through a polishing mechanism, minimizing the risk of any adverse effects. However, due to its gentle nature, the whitening effects may not be as effective as those of chemical-based products. Consistent use of whitening toothpaste is necessary to experience significant results, typically for a few weeks to months.
● At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits: You can buy at-home teeth whitening kits from your dentist or over the counter. These kits come in various forms, such as rinses, trays, lights, whitening strips, and brushes. Typically, they contain peroxide, effectively lightening tooth enamel when used consistently for days or weeks.
Your dentist might provide a customized whitening tray that fits your upper and lower teeth more accurately than trays sold in stores. You can apply the whitening gel and wear these trays for short durations, either during the day or overnight, as per your dentist's recommendation. However, prolonged usage of trays can cause potential irritation to your teeth and gums.
● Professional Teeth Whitening: It is performed by a qualified dentist. Their whitening agents are significantly more potent than other options as they contain higher peroxide concentrations. As a result, they can effectively and rapidly alter the shade of your teeth, surpassing the effectiveness of at-home methods. The in-office whitening procedure typically takes one hour to complete. Sometimes, a light or laser may be combined with the peroxide to enhance the whitening process.
Differences Between Professional Teeth Whitening and At-Home Teeth Whitening
While both whitening procedures help you achieve a pristine smile, they have slight variations in the following aspects:
● Time: The professional whitening procedure may take 1 to 2 hours to achieve teeth that are eight shades whiter, whereas at-home whitening requires you to spend 1 to 2 hours per day over several days or weeks to achieve teeth that are 3 to 6 shades whiter.
● Cost: Professional teeth whitening is pricier because it involves dental professionals' skills and stronger whitening solutions. On the other hand, at-home teeth whitening is typically more affordable as you apply the whitening products without professional help.
● Longevity: Professional whitening can reach deeper layers of the tooth, resulting in long-lasting whiteness compared to at-home methods.
Pros and Cons of DIY Teeth Whitening
Pros
● Cost-effective
● Convenient to use
● Available in multiple formats
Cons
● May not provide the same level of whitening as professional cleaning
● May damage your gums and teeth if used improperly
● Unsuitable for those with undiagnosed cavities or pre-existing dental conditions
● Overuse of whitening strips or pastes can cause enamel erosion
● May not remove all stains as professional cleaning
Pros and Cons of Professional Teeth Whitening
Pros
● Helps achieve brighter teeth
● Provides quick results
● Uses high-quality whitening products
● Performed by a trained professional, minimizing the risk of damage
Cons
● Expensive
● May cause tooth sensitivity
● Not suitable for pregnant women
● Does not work on all teeth
● May aggravate receding gum lines
While both procedures have some pros and cons, professional teeth whitening is always the best way to achieve long-lasting yet pleasing results with fewer risks.
Get Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening at Smile Arizona Dentistry
At Smile Arizona Dentistry, we offer safe and effective teeth whitening treatments that will help you eliminate those discolorations or stains, leaving you with a bright, radiant smile. Trust the expertise and experience of our dentists to achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more about our teeth whitening treatments.
