Teeth WhiteningScottsdale, AZ

Store-bought products

People, sometimes, initially turn to over-the-counter products for teeth whitening. These come in toothpaste products and whitening strips. Some mouthwashes contain whitening agents. People can find these products at the local supermarket or drug store.

Results from using these products can vary. However, generally, it will take longer to whiten teeth when using toothpaste, whitening strips, and other options. The teeth likely will not improve by more than a few shades, as there is a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide in these products. People will have to use these products longer and more often to maintain white teeth.

Take-home trays

Another method of using at-home teeth whitening first starts in the dentist’s office. When a patient is concerned about tooth discoloration, a visit to the dentist is a good step. The dentist will examine the patient and make impressions of the teeth. From these, the dentist can custom-make a mouthguard-like appliance that the patient will wear overnight.

With whitening trays, the dentist will instruct the patient to put a certain amount of hydrogen peroxide solution in the mouthguard before putting in the trays. Usually, the patient will wear the trays for several weeks or a few months. Some people see results within a few days. There is more hydrogen peroxide in this solution than there is with store-purchased products. Once the patient has used all of the whitening gel, the dentist can evaluate whether the individual needs more or whether there is no need to continue the treatment.

In-office treatment

For the most serious discoloration issues, an in-office professional teeth whitening might make the most sense. Instead of having to use a product daily for weeks or months, the patient will only need to come into the dentist’s office once or twice for about an hourlong appointment. Whitening treatments in the office typically produce longer-lasting whiteness. The dentist can also improve the person’s tooth color by several shades.

The procedure is pain-free. The patient will sit or lie in a dental chair while wearing an apparatus in the mouth. A highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide gel goes in the appliance. Then, the dentist will use heat or light to activate the gel. The peroxide then penetrates deep into the tooth, breaking down the stains and making the teeth whiter.