Why Is Professional Teeth Whitening Better Than Store-Bought Kits?

Do you want whiter teeth? So do most people. That’s why you see so many shelves full of whitening products whenever you go to your local supermarket. But do these products really work? Many people feel as if they are paying too much money for little to no results. However, professional teeth whitening in Falls Church could be the way to help you achieve your dream smile. Here are a few ways that professional whitening differs from store-bought kits.

Active Ingredients

Pretty much all whitening agents use a peroxide solution to brighten up teeth. However, the amount of peroxide varies depending on the product. When you go to the store and buy an over-the-counter kit, this will have a mild whitening agent which can be as low as 10% peroxide. However, a stronger one could contain as much as 40%. When you go to the dentist in Falls Church, your teeth will be treated with a much stronger agent which means that you will have much more dramatic results.

Level of Whiteness

All teeth-whitening solutions can only make your teeth as white as your natural tooth color. This means that they help to lift stains from your teeth but cannot necessarily change your natural tooth color. Because store-bought whiteners contain less peroxide, they will not be able to give you as white of a result as your dentist can with professional teeth whitening.

Cost of Treatment

Store-bought kits are much more affordable that professional teeth whitening, but you have to remember that you are getting what you pay for. Many people feel that they end up with little to no results after using store bought kits.

Sensitivity

All teeth whitening products are bound to make your teeth feel more sensitive for a short period of time. Store bought kits tend to cause less sensitivity because the levels of the whitening agent aren’t as high. However, dentists are able to control the amount of peroxide in their solutions in order to tailor it for their patient’s sensitivity levels. This way, they can create the most effective, yet comfortable whitening treatment for their patients.

Number of Teeth Whitened

If you are using whitening strips, you may not be able to whiten as many teeth as you hoped because the strip only reaches so far. However, professional whitening affects your entire smile, as opposed to just the ones in the front. This helps to create a more cohesive white smile.

If you’re wanting a whiter smile, ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening. This way, you can receive and effective treatment that is made just for you. Ultimately, you will get your money’s worth.

About the Author

Dr. Anita Kianimanesh earned her Doctor of Medical Dentistry at Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine and has undergone advanced training in comprehensive dentistry through Spear. She is currently a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Spear Education Club. For more information on professional teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (703) 998-4244.