Over-the-Counter vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
Although some over-the-counter whitening products can provide adequate results for certain individuals, professional-grade teeth whitening generally creates far superior outcomes for the majority of patients. There are several reasons for this, chief of which being that professional teeth whitening solutions include whitening agents that are far more aggressive than what can be found in most over-the-counter teeth whitening kits available at the local store. Professional-grade whitening ingredients are capable of penetrating more deeply into the tooth enamel to address stains and discoloration that have been developing for many years.
Another significant distinction between professional teeth whitening and over-the-counter options is the time it takes to achieve noticeable results. Just one in-office whitening treatment typically yields immediately visible effects, while over-the-counter solutions often require many weeks of patient, consistent use before producing even a mild degree of whitening.
With all of this in mind, one of the most important differences between these options is the fact that professional teeth whitening treatments are developed and overseen by one of our cosmetic dentists. This provides patients with management of their treatment by an experienced professional, which can dramatically increase the likelihood that outcomes will be successful and that the process is done safely.
In addition to over-the-counter options, we live in an age where claims of so-called “natural” solutions such as charcoal teeth whitening and coconut oil teeth whitening are prevalent—regimens that, according to the American Dental Association, have no evidence to suggest they are safe or effective. In fact, many of these gimmicky whitening options are quite abrasive to the tooth structure. They function more so by removing a layer of enamel, exposing the whiter layer beneath. Eventually, you run out of enamel, and this can spell big trouble down the road. Our teeth whitening treatments, supervised by our skilled dental professionals, are the best way to safely ensure optimal results and a brighter, whiter smile.
What are My Teeth Whitening Options?
Scottsdale Smile Center offers two advanced options for teeth whitening:
Opalescence® Boost Teeth Whitening by Ultradent
Opalescence® Boost is an advanced, in-office treatment that contains a powerful whitening solution composed of hydrogen peroxide gel, potassium nitrate (reduces sensitivities), and fluoride (strengthens tooth enamel). Unlike other in-office whitening techniques, the Opalescence® Boost formula is chemically activated, eliminating the need for a hot, potentially uncomfortable light to make the treatment work.
To begin treatment, one of our skilled dentists will activate the specialized whitening solution and gently apply the gel to the surface of the teeth. As you relax comfortably, this gel will need to remain on the teeth for approximately 20 minutes. Once enough time has passed, the gel is wiped off your teeth, and the process is then repeated. Following the second application, the gel will again be cleaned off, you will be instructed to rinse thoroughly, and our dentist will inspect your teeth to ensure an optimal result was achieved. Should additional whitening be necessary, a second treatment can usually be scheduled for a few days later.
Opalescence® Take-Home Teeth Whitening
For patients who desire to whiten their teeth at their own convenience, our practice offers Opalescence® take-home teeth whitening. With this technique, your dentist will provide you with fitted trays and the advanced teeth whitening gel, and he will give you specific instructions for at-home application. While every individual is different, most patients are instructed to simply wear the trays while they sleep, and stop when their teeth have become as white as they desire. Generally, at-home teeth whitening takes two to four weeks to achieve an ideal outcome.
