Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter: Why In-Office Treatment Gets Better Results

A bright and sparkling smile is the first thing that catches our attention. But as we grow older, our tooth enamel dulls, which causes discoloration. There are many ways to whiten your teeth, but two of the most popular methods are professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter products. Are you wondering which one is best for you?

In this blog, we will discuss the differences between professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter products. We will also explore why treatment by a cosmetic dentist is the best choice for you. By knowing the differences, you will be able to make an informed decision for your smile’s future.

What’s the Difference Between Professional and At-Home Teeth Whitening?

When it comes to teeth bleaching, many people will consider over-the-counter options first. These are easily available, simple to use, and appear to be an inexpensive solution. However, over-the-counter options such as whitening strips and gels may seem like a good solution, but they do not always deliver the results you are looking for.

On the other hand, professional whitening from a cosmetic dentist provides more than just a cosmetic solution. They are tailored to your needs, providing you with a personalized solution for the best results. What is the difference, and why should you put your smile in the hands of your dentist?

How Professional Teeth Whitening Works

Professional teeth whitening in Glendora is a procedure performed in a dental office by a cosmetic dentist with the knowledge to improve your teeth’s appearance. The procedure starts with a consultation, during which the cosmetic dentist will assess your teeth and determine whether any issues could affect the teeth-whitening process.

The teeth-whitening gel used in professional teeth bleaching contains a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide than the OTC product. This is what makes it possible to get faster results. In addition, a protective barrier is placed around your gums to prevent irritation during the procedure.

Why Over-the-Counter Products Don’t Deliver the Same Results

Store-bought whitening products may seem convenient, but drawbacks can affect their effectiveness. It is essential to understand the shortcomings of such products to make an informed decision about a safer, more effective way to enhance your smile.

• Lower Strength Formulas: Commercial products usually contain lower concentrations of whitening agents. These products can remove only surface stains; they are not potent enough to penetrate deeper and remove discoloration in enamel, resulting in slower, less noticeable results.
• Lower Penetration Ability: The lower strength of their active ingredients makes these products less effective at removing stubborn stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, or aging, which require higher-strength formulas.
• One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Whitening strips and trays are manufactured in large quantities. They are not customized to fit your teeth, resulting in patchy whitening or areas that are not reached at all.
• Higher Sensitivity Risk: These products can cause gum irritation or tooth sensitivity if not used properly or if they do not fit properly, especially if you do not follow the instructions carefully.
• No Professional Oversight: Without guidance from a dental professional, it is difficult to determine whether whitening is appropriate for your teeth or whether any issues could affect the results.

The Speed and Convenience of Professional Teeth Whitening

One of the most important benefits of professional teeth bleaching is the rapidity of the results. In fact, a normal in-office whitening procedure only takes about an hour, and you will see the immediate effects of the whitening on your teeth. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion or simply want to improve your everyday look, professional whitening provides fast, long-lasting results.

On the other hand, over-the-counter teeth bleaching products may take weeks or even months of regular use to show noticeable results. This not only takes up more of your time but may leave you frustrated with the slow pace of progress.

Customization for Your Unique Needs

Everyone’s teeth are different, and professional teeth bleaching takes this into account. During your consultation, your cosmetic dentist will consider the severity of your stains, the condition of your gums, and the condition of your enamel. Based on this, they will determine the best method for whitening your teeth.

On the other hand, over-the-counter teeth bleaching takes a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Since they are not meant for you, they might not be the safest or most effective way to whiten your teeth.

The Long-Term Results of Professional Whitening

Another major benefit of professional teeth whitening is that the effects last longer than those of OTC whitening products. After a professional whitening treatment, you can expect your teeth to remain white for several months, depending on your oral hygiene.

On the other hand, if you use an OTC teeth-whitening product, the effects will last for a shorter period. Since these products are not as effective at removing stubborn stains or addressing the cause of tooth discoloration, you may need to apply them repeatedly to keep your teeth white.

Take the Next Step Toward a Whiter Smile

However, when it comes to whitening your teeth, the best way to achieve a long-lasting, noticeable smile is to seek professional teeth whitening from a cosmetic dentist. Whether you are looking to remove deep stains, whiten your smile for a special event, or simply maintain a bright smile, professional teeth bleaching is a customized solution that cannot be achieved with over-the-counter products.

If you are looking to change your smile, professional teeth whitening in Glendora may be exactly what you are looking for. Stop letting over-the-counter products give you temporary, slow results. Contact Glendora Healthy Smiles today and begin your journey to a brighter smile.

Questions People Ask About Professional Teeth Whitening