If you smoke or drink coffee, your teeth are likely discolored. Maybe your teeth have just yellowed with age, which is a common occurrence. If your teeth are not as white as they used to be, you can turn back the clock by using a teeth whitening system, but keep in mind that not all teeth whitening methods are equal in terms of results. Here’s what you need to know about over-the-counter vs. professional teeth whitening methods.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening products that you purchase from the drug store come in a variety of forms, including whitening strips, gels, and mouthrinses. You can also apply bleaching treatments by wearing a tray on your teeth that resembles a mouthguard. Most of these methods lighten your teeth by at least one shade, but you may have to use them for weeks or even months before you see a difference.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening produces more dramatic results in a shorter amount of time. In-office methods consist of Dr. Denes applying the bleaching gel to your teeth, and with some methods, a special light is used to accelerate the process. Dr. Denes may also prescribe treatments for you to use at home. These at-home treatments differ from over-the-counter whitening methods in two ways. First, they use a professional-grade bleaching gel that whitens your teeth by seven shades or more. Secondly, your mouth tray is custom-made by Dr. Denes so it will fit your mouth perfectly and provide more effective treatment.
How Long Your Teeth Whitening Results Will Last
Any results you achieve with professional or over-the-counter whitening products are usually temporary. If you avoid substances that commonly stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, wine, blueberries, and tobacco products, you may be able to maintain your results for a year or so, at which time you will want to repeat your treatment.
If you’re ready to enhance your smile with a professional teeth whitening treatment, call Drs. Alex and Claudia Denes today at (559) 297-1800 to schedule an appointment. Fresno Dental Studio serves patients in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Mendota, Orange Cove, Reedley, Selma, and the surrounding areas.