Is In-Office Teeth Whitening Better than OTC products?

If you’ve looked into teeth whitening, you’ve probably heard about in-office whitening. But what’s that, and how is it different from take-home whitening trays?

In-office whitening is the fastest way to whiten your teeth. It’s a procedure that your dentist performs. First, your gums and lips will be protected with a retractor, which will keep your mouth open. The whitening gel is usually applied to the front surfaces of your teeth, and a special light or laser is generally used to activate the whitening gel.

Why should I choose in-office teeth whitening?

In-office teeth whitening is safer, faster, and more effective than over-the-counter whitening products. When you opt for an in-office whitening treatment, you’ll get the brightest, whitest smile in as little as one visit. This means you can look your best for a special event or professional photo sooner than later.

When you get your teeth whitened in a dental office, your dentist has access to stronger whitening gels and techniques. They can recommend a whitening treatment that’s custom-made for your smile. Plus, your dentist can help you avoid common whitening mistakes like whitening your teeth for too long.

What should I expect during in-office teeth whitening?

Your dentist will still apply a protective layer to cover your gums, lips, and mouth. A protective gel will also help make sure the bleach remains on your teeth and doesn’t affect your gums or tongue.

In-office teeth whitening generally takes about an hour. However, this will depend on the extent of staining and the number of teeth being whitened. While over-the-counter products tend to be less expensive, they may take several weeks to produce results.

Is in-office teeth whitening more expensive than OTC products?

The short answer is yes. In-office teeth whitening is typically more expensive than over-the-counter whitening products. Patients can naturally achieve whiter smiles in less time than OTC products by choosing an in-office whitening treatment. As a result, patients can save time and money by selecting an in-office treatment.

To know more, call us at (505) 208-0505 and schedule an appointment with the dentist.