These days, there are plenty of options out there when it comes to teeth whitening, whether it be at home or in the dentist chair. Each system comes with its own level of convenience, effectiveness, and price, however, and with so many products on the market, misconceptions about the effectiveness of in-home treatments abound.
You may be curious as to whether home whitening products work, how safe they are, or if you should try alternative methods. Thankfully, Dr. Lordo’s office has the answers to your questions, along with offering professional in-office whitening services.
What Types of Teeth Whitening Are Out There?
Teeth whitening systems generally fall into two categories – the kind you do yourself, at home, or a whitening procedure performed at your dentist’s office. At-home procedures are either over-the-counter products that are generic, or treatments prescribed by your dentist and customized to your specific needs.
At-home products come in a handful of different methods, including whitening rinses, toothpastes, gel strips, or whitening trays. Choosing one of these falls largely to personal preference and comfort level.
How Effective Are the Different Forms of Whitening?
For most generic, over-the-counter systems of teeth whitening, their descriptions read as being “moderately effective” at improving the brightness of your smile. Some treatments, such as whitening strips, can brighten your teeth up to about five or six shades.
As for how long the improvement will last, know that no form of teeth bleaching is permanent. Patients who abstain from foods and drink with staining agents may see the positive results for as long as a year; those who go back to their regular routine of coffee and cigarettes might see the results fade in as little as a month.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
By and large, teeth whitening systems are considered to be safe to use. However, depending on the concentration of the bleaching agent, they can cause some discomfort or pain if the solution comes in contact with the gums. Generic gel trays (those not molded to fit your specific bite pattern) can also rub and irritate the gums.
Over-using generic whitening systems can also come with the risk of causing tooth pain or sensitivity. If a product is causing your discomfort or is increasing your tooth sensitivity, you should discontinue use and talk to your dentist right away.
Dr. Lordo’s Whitening Services
In-office whitening is definitely the fastest and most-effective method available, and Dr. Lordo’s Worthington office is equipped to get your smile looking its very best. We offer several different methods to suit your schedule and budget, and can complete an in-office whitening procedure in just about an hour.
Since the bleaching agents available to dental professionals are also much more potent than those sold over-the-counter, we are also able to make your smile much brighter than generic systems, potentially up to about ten shades brighter.
To determine what method of brightening is the best for your smile, and to set up your first appointment, visit us online or call Dr. Lordo’s office at 614-885-4754.