Like most people, you may also be wishing that your smile looks brighter and more radiant than it currently is. If so, you’re not alone. After all, teeth can lose their radiance over time. But one of the best ways to get that spark back is teeth whitening. Many people compare store-bought products with the in-office treatment and wonder, “Is professional teeth whitening worth it?”
We’ll break it down for you so you can make an informed decision for your smile.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
It’s a cosmetic procedure that helps lighten the color of your teeth while removing any stubborn stains. Usually, most dental professionals carry it out in two ways.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
This is one of the safest and most reliable ways to get a bright smile, all within a single session at your dentist’s office. For this one, dentists use a strong whitening agent like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
Your dentist will use special precautions before applying the whitening gel, so your gums are protected.
It is effective for removing tough stains like those caused by foods, drinks, smoking, etc.
At-Home Whitening Kits
Since most people have busy schedules and may find it hard to visit the dental office, many dentists also offer convenient at-home whitening kits. They typically have a bleaching gel and custom whitening trays.
You’ll have to use them consistently as your dentist instructs to get the best results.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Worth the Cost?
Yes, professional teeth whitening is absolutely worth your time and money if you’re looking for a reliable way to whiten your teeth. Some major benefits that set it apart from store-bought products are:
It’s really effective
The biggest difference between professional whitening and store-bought or OTC products is the strength of the whitening agents they use. Professional products have a greater concentration of whitening agents, and each detail is customized to make sure you get even results.
It works faster
OTC gels or strips for teeth whitening may take weeks or sometimes even months, and the results are still not worth it in many cases.
Professional treatment, especially in-office teeth whitening, is known for its speed. For most patients, it only takes a single visit that usually lasts about an hour to achieve a pearly-white smile.
It’s safer for your teeth and gums
Dentists have special training using these techniques to whiten your teeth, which store-bought products do not offer. They ensure that the whitening power stays focused on your teeth and doesn’t harm your gums and soft tissues in the process.
How Long Do the Results of Professional Teeth Whitening Last?
When you invest in ways to make your smile more attractive, you want the results to last long. And that’s another thing that makes professional teeth a better choice.
In most cases, the results of professional teeth whitening usually last 2 to 3 years before they start to fade. This is different from store-bought kit results, which usually last a couple of weeks.
Your professional treatment outcome also depends on how well you care for your whitened teeth, your diet, and other habits such as smoking.
Final Words
If you have been thinking if professional teeth whitening is really worth it, the answer is yes! It’s safer, faster, and gives you results that last longer. So, if you’re ready for this step, consult our dental experts at Alonso Family Dental to get started today! Call us at (281) 778-8400 to book an appointment.