If your teeth are stained despite using over the counter whitening products like toothpaste, white strips, or gels, it may be time for something stronger. Professional whitening from your dentist can remove up to eight shades of discoloration either at home in about two weeks, or in-office in under two hours. Here’s how this treatment works and why going ‘pro’ can save you money in the long run!
Professional vs. Over-the-counter Whitening
When it comes to choosing professional versus over-the-counter whitening, many patients don’t understand the difference in cost. After all, if they use the same ingredients, why is the whitening treatment from your dentist more expensive? The truth is, when it comes to these products, you get what you pay for. Often, storebought kits contain diluted ingredients, so they take longer to work. While they may be more affordable initially, by the time you get the results you want, you may end up spending more than you would on professional treatment and have exposed your teeth to sensitivity-causing chemicals for way longer, too.
How Many Professional Whitening Treatments Will I Need?
The good news about professional treatment from your dentist is that often you can achieve your whitening goals in just one appointment. Though you may need several applications of the whitening gel in the one to two hours you are there for your procedure, professional ingredients can easily lift up to eight shades of discoloration.
Should you choose instead to whiten your smile in the comfort of your own house with a professional take-home kit, you can expect your treatment to take around two weeks to remove the same eight shades of stains.
How Often Can I Whiten My Teeth?
With professional whitening, you should only need to touch up your smile once a year. Anything more frequent can cause tooth damage and sensitivity. There are a number of things you can do to extend the life of your whitening, such as:
- Eating a “white diet” the first few days after treatment (consume only white or light-colored, non-staining foods and beverages).
- Don’t smoke, vape, or use tobacco products.
- Brush your teeth twice a day; floss once a day.
- Visit your dentist every six months for your regular, biannual exam and cleaning appointments.
Remember, professional whitening can often achieve in one appointment what months of over-the-counter treatments can’t touch, and with less expense and sensitivity. If you’d like to remove up to eight shades of stains faster than those storebought kits, speak to your dentist today about whether you qualify for professional whitening!
About Dr. Rich
Dr. Cher Rich earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, and her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Houston Dental School. Today, Dr. Rich is proud to provide comprehensive dental care that helps her patients achieve their best smiles ever. If your own gorgeous grin looks a little lackluster these days, it might be time for a professional whitening treatment. To find out if this treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling us at 281-69-6281.