Most people want to have a bright, white smile, but teeth can get stained despite the most careful oral hygiene routine. Teeth-staining foods and drinks (coffee and wine are the biggest culprits) and natural aging are some reasons why teeth can appear more yellow over time. Fortunately,
professional teeth whitening treatments offered at your dentist office are a safe and effective way to brighten that smile quickly.
There are teeth whitening products available for purchase, such as toothpaste, gels, and rinses, but professional treatments – whether in-office or take-home – are more effective and more reliable.
In-Office Treatment
An in-office procedure, also called chairside bleaching, takes just one hour. Your dentist will first protect your lips and gums by placing a barrier before beginning the treatment. A special whitening gel is applied to the teeth, then activated with a special lamp. You simply have to sit back and wait for the treatment to complete. You will leave the office with a smile that is several shades brighter.
Take-Home Treatment
To complete treatment at home, your dentist will provide you with plastic trays and whitening gel. You will need to fill the trays, which are created to fit your teeth precisely, with a small amount of whitening gel and wear them overnight. This treatment takes approximately two weeks but has similar results to an in-office treatment.
You can discuss these teeth whitening options with your dentist to decide on which is the best for you.
