Everybody wants Hollywood-worthy white teeth, and with today’s standards in cosmetic dentistry, you too can have the killer smile you’ve always wanted. When you consult a dentist in Greenwood about dental whitening, you will likely be given two options: in-office whitening and at-home whitening. Each has its own advantages, as discussed below.
What’s the main difference between the two?
Aside from the obvious, there are actually quite a few differences between the two. For one, in-office whitening procedures typically make use of stronger agents, while the at-home methods use milder solutions that would be ideal for patients with sensitive teeth. During the in-office procedure, the dentist applies trays filled with bleaching solution to your teeth while keeping your gums and the rest of your mouth protected. You teeth could whiten up to 6-10 shades once the procedure is completed. On the other hand, at home teeth whitening is something you can do by yourself using custom trays and bleaching gel provided by your dentist.
Benefits of In-Office Procedure
One upside of opting for an in-office procedure is that you don’t have to do anything but sit in the dentist’s chair. The length of time needed to complete the procedure varies according to the type of procedure. Some just takes just one or two visits to the dentist, while others could last weeks. In-office teeth whitening is also expected to last for more than one year provided that you follow your dentist’s advice for proper maintenance and dental hygiene after the treatment.
Benefits of At-Home Procedure
Most people who go for at-home teeth whitening do it for the cost savings, while others do it to avoid multiple dental visits. At-home teeth whitening products are relatively cheaper than an in-office procedure, and best of all, you can do it at your own pace. Your teeth are whitened gradually over a period of several weeks.
Which is the right method for you?
As stated before, both methods are proven effective and safe. In the end, the choice will be entirely up to you. Consider facts like teeth sensitivity, budget, time, and convenience in order to make the best choice.
No matter what method you choose, you should always keep your safety in mind. Get a recommendation from a trusted Greenwood dentist like one from Gillum Dentistry, instead of resorting to DIY procedures without professional supervision. The dentist can present a number of effective options that would be right for your needs and preferences.
(Source: Teeth Whitening at Home or in the Office?, WebMD)