What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment that is designed to reduce the appearance of stains and lighten the color of the teeth using a bleaching agent. Many people associate white teeth with a clean, healthy smile, and professional teeth whitening can help patients feel greater confidence in their smiles. Many options are available today to whiten teeth, including over-the-counter treatments and professional, in-office procedures. A licensed cosmetic dentist can help you determine the right approach, depending on your needs, goals, and budget.
What Are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?
Few things are as welcoming and lovely as a bright and beautiful smile. Teeth whitening offers a way for patients to make a great impression with friends, family, and coworkers without a high cost and with natural-looking results. Many people also find that their self-confidence improves following teeth whitening treatment, and the easy maintenance makes it possible for just about anyone to enjoy a healthy-looking smile for life.
What Is the Best Teeth Whitening Option for Me?
With so many options, it can be hard for some patients to decide which teeth whitening method is right for them. Here is a quick overview of some of the most popular treatments:
Whitening Toothpastes
Available at virtually every pharmacy and drug store, whitening toothpastes may or may not include a bleaching agent and can be a great option for maintaining a bright smile after a professional treatment, although they have limited ability to noticeably whiten teeth on their own.
Professional Bleaching
In-office treatments are typically the most powerful and effective, with noticeable results immediately after the procedure. Professional teeth whitening uses strong bleaching agents (typically hydrogen peroxide) to lighten teeth by several shades while protecting the patient’s oral health.
Home Bleaching
Some patients prefer to complete their teeth whitening in the comfort of their home. At-home teeth whitening can be achieved using a custom-made tray and a professional-grade bleaching agent (typically carbamide peroxide). This approach takes more time than an in-office treatment, often two or three weeks, but the results are often similar.
Over-the-Counter Vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
The primary difference between over-the-counter teeth whitening kits and professional treatments is the strength of the bleaching agent. Dentists can prescribe stronger, more effective treatments that provide more pronounced whitening than anything that is available at your local store, as brands are required to offer something that is suitable for a wide range of people and sensitivities. Furthermore, Dr. Martin Gorman, our extensively trained dentist, can customize your procedure to suit your unique anatomic needs, desired outcome, and personal preferences.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
The price of teeth whitening can range dramatically depending on the treatment used. In-office and at-home professional brightening procedures typically vary from about $400 to $800—we will review the full cost of your specific treatment plan with you prior to beginning. We want you to feel comfortable and confident in your program, and we welcome any questions you may have.