Teeth whitening treatments are in high demand because they are an excellent option for restoring your smile if age, diet, or lifestyle factors have caused your teeth to discolor. There are many ways to whiten teeth, and you may need help determining which option is best for you. Vibrant Square Dental will guide you through the difference between professional whitening treatments and over-the-counter whitening products.
Over-The-Counter Teeth Whitening
Over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products are an inexpensive way to achieve a whiter smile at home. There are many types of over-the-counter teeth whitening products, including strips, gels, toothpastes, and whitening kits that are found local pharmacies or grocery stores. OTC whitening products use low concentrations of bleach to remove stains from the tooth surface. Depending on the product, it may take two weeks to a month to see visible results. However, it is possible that you may not get the best results since this method is not tailored to your particular teeth alignment, shape, or desired look. For the best results always consult with your dentist.
In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedures
Before your professional whitening procedure, your dentist will do a thorough examination of your teeth and give them a cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. In-office whitening products are based on peroxides that change the color of the tooth itself. During the procedure, Dr. Kharkavets will then protect your gums before applying bleach to the surface of your teeth. The product is activated and left on the teeth for a few minutes, then washed off with water. Your results will vary based on the natural color and degree of discoloration of the teeth, but it is normal for patients to experience multiple whitening effects during a single visit.
While not all stains respond to teeth whitening treatments, these treatments can safely and effectively remove stains over time, leaving you with a brighter, whiter smile. Vibrant Square Dental can provide a variety of bleaching techniques and products, including:
- Vital bleaching: This procedure treats stains caused by tobacco, food, and other staining elements.
- Non-Vital Bleaching: This method is used on teeth that are no longer “alive”. This could be the result of a root canal or other medical procedure. Non-Vital Bleaching tackles discoloration from the inside out.
- Custom Mouthguard: If repeated treatments are required to achieve your teeth whitening goals, Dr. Kharkavets prescribes a custom mouthguard that contains whitening agents. These are worn for part of the day.
The whitening process is incredibly fast, taking just under an hour to complete. You can easily schedule your treatment during your lunch break for a noticeably brighter smile.
Which Option Should You Opt For
When it comes to tooth whitening, opting for in-office treatments is the safer choice in comparison to over-the-counter products, especially if you have sensitive teeth and gums. Despite the use of higher bleach concentrations in in-office gels, the procedure is closely monitored by a dentist who takes extra precautions to avoid irritation of soft tissue and overexposure that could lead to enamel damage. With proper oral hygiene, restricted intake of pigmented foods and beverages, and avoidance of smoking, a professional whitening treatment can offer a long-lasting white smile for longer periods of time than OTC products.
Schedule A Visit
If you are looking for teeth whitening treatments or other dental care options Vibrant Square Dental can help achieve the smile you always wanted. Our clinic offers personalized treatment plans paired with the latest dental technology and 30 years of experience to Vaughn and surrounding communities. Call 905-553-3004 today to make an appointment with Dr. Kharkavets or Dr. Sun or Dr. Soloviov today.
