If you are unhappy with the color of your teeth, you may wish to whiten them. Perhaps you have done a bit of reading online and come across advertisements and social media posts that advocate for the use of various over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Strips, gels, mouthwashes, and even DIY hacks are becoming increasingly popular. But do these approaches actually work, or would it be better to visit your dentist for professional teeth whitening? This blog post explains what you should know.
Professional vs. Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening: Which Is More Effective?
Professional teeth whitening treatments tend to be much more effective than over-the-counter options.
One big reason for this is that products used by dentists contain a higher concentration of active ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These ingredients are powerful enough to penetrate the enamel and break down deep-set stains, which over-the-counter products often fail to achieve. Additionally, professional treatments are applied carefully and with precision, which enhances their effectiveness and reduces the risk of uneven results.
Of course, over-the-counter products, such as whitening strips, gels, and mouthwashes, may provide moderate results for some individuals. These products are accessible and relatively affordable, which makes them appealing. However, their lower concentration of active ingredients and limited application methods mean that you should have modest expectations if you choose to use them.
Other Important Considerations
Safety is a crucial factor when comparing professional and over-the-counter teeth whitening methods. Over-the-counter products, when used excessively or improperly, can harm your enamel. Sadly, due to the limited effectiveness of OTC options, some individuals use them much more often than recommended. This overuse can lead to irreversible tooth damage.
Professional whitening treatments, on the other hand, are conducted under the supervision of a dentist. Dentists take your oral health into account and tailor the treatment to suit your specific needs. They reduce the likelihood of side effects, such as sensitivity, by using protective measures during the procedure. This level of care contributes to a whitening experience that is both safe and effective.
Talk to Your Dentist for the Best Results
Whether you choose professional or OTC teeth whitening is entirely up to you. However, in order to have the best experience, you should keep the following points in mind:
- Even if you plan to use OTC teeth whitening, you should get a dental checkup first. If your dentist identifies untreated cavities or other oral health issues, you should get them addressed before you move forward with whitening.
- Only use proven teeth whitening methods. If you use an OTC product, limit your options to those that are approved by the FDA. Avoid methods that use extremely harsh ingredients, such as charcoal.
- Protect your results by limiting your intake of staining foods, sticking to a good oral hygiene routine, and adhering to other best practices. These habits will reduce the temptation to over-whiten your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening is superior to OTC options, but whichever path you choose, be mindful of how your decision may affect your oral health.
Meet the Practice
At Santavicca Dental Professionals, we are pleased to offer in-office teeth whitening, take-home professional whitening kits, and a broad range of other services. If you have questions about how you can safely and effectively brighten your smile, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our Lebanon, NH, office at 603-215-7108.