I would like to know if it’s worth going to the dentist to have professional tooth whitening done?
I looked at using Crest whitening strips and tried them but they didn’t make much of a difference for me. How much does it cost and how often does it have to be done?
– Mike from Oklahoma
Mike,
To answer your question, professional whitening procedures at the dental office do work well and can dramatically lighten your teeth. Any whitening product bought over the counter or a treatment from your dentist can be harmful to your enamel if it is over-used.
The products over the counter may lighten teeth a couple of shades, however this is more of a temporary lightening and the product has to be used over and over again in order to maintain brightness. The reason for this is because over-the-counter bleaching products are not as concentrated as the ones used in dental offices. You could compare the difference to the drugs – Ibuprofen versus Percocet, with Percocet being far stronger.
When you choose to have your teeth whitened at the dental office, you can be sure that your teeth will remain white and bright for several years but this will also depend on your diet. Dark liquids, smoking and other habits can discolor your teeth quicker. However, if you watch what you eat, you should be happy with the results from your dentist.
It is recommended that patients see their dental professional every few years to touch up their teeth if they notice a darkening of the teeth. This is fairly inexpensive.
Most dentists have two types of whitening procedures. One is an in-office procedure where a bleaching agent is applied to your teeth and a light is placed over your teeth to activate the bleaching product. This procedure generally takes about two hours and boosts up the color of your teeth several shades. This may cost several hundred dollars.
Another option is to have bleach trays made and you can bleach your teeth in the comfort of your own home. This procedure is less expensive than the dental office and it works just as well.
It is important that you consult with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening and what product would be the best fit for you.
This blog brought to you by Dr. Noah of Region Dental