Why At-Home Teeth Whitening Might Be the Best Option for You

Teeth whitening is an effective way to remove stains and discoloration and enjoy a brighter smile. As a dental patient, you may have a choice between in-office treatments and at-home products dispensed and approved by a local dentist’s office. The second option offers many benefits that are worth considering.

Advantages of Whitening Your Teeth at Home

Most people these days have very little free time left after tending to their daily responsibilities. Your busy schedule can make scheduling regular cleaning appointments at your dentist’s office difficult. This is why dentist-approved home whitening kits are such a popular option.

Please understand, we’re not talking about those mass-produced, over-the-counter whitening kits you’ll find online and at local discounters. Those formulas suffer from many shortcomings, including spotty quality control and serious safety concerns. Instead, we’re talking about specially formulated, dentist-approved whitening gels and trays. Patients can use these medical-grade items at home and on their own time. Here are some of the advantages they provide:

• Comfort and convenience. There’s no need to spend extra time at the dentist’s office or worry about a stranger performing the process. This is a huge advantage for people who work non-traditional schedules or have other commitments.
• Safety. Doctor-prescribed whitening kits are made to exacting standards set by both public and private regulatory agencies. They’re perfectly safe when used as directed by your dentist.
• The patient is able to use as much gel as he or she needs in order to do the job safely and efficiently. Your dental office will provide the supplies and give you thorough instructions.
• Customized results. People with sensitive teeth may prefer to use less whitener, while others need a slightly higher concentration to achieve satisfactory results. Doing the job at home enables you to tailor the treatment to your goals and priorities.

Dentist Prescribed Whitening Kits Vs. Over-The-Counter Products

We mentioned this earlier. But we’re going to say it again because it’s so important. The whitening kits we’re talking about in this article are available only by prescription from an established dentistry practice. This sets them apart from look-alike products that are sold and used without proper medical supervision.

Unregulated teeth whiteners are not made to the same standards as professional products. The trays may not fit your mouth comfortably, exposing the user to injury and infection risks. The chemicals they use will never provide the same results as medical-grade formulas. So stick with the safe, smart choice and use only whitening kits dispensed by your dental professional.

You should always see your dentist for a thorough checkup before beginning any at-home whitening regimen. He or she will examine your teeth and gums and correct problems such as cavities. You’ll be able to ask questions and make sure you’re comfortable with using the products.

Whitening your teeth is a great way to enjoy added self-confidence while presenting a bright, happy smile to the world. Follow your dentist’s guidelines and you’ll back on this decision as one of the best you’ve ever made.

About the Author

Dr. Bita Karnali has been practicing dentistry for almost 20 years. She devotes hundreds of hours per year to continuous training so that she can provide the latest advances to her patients. You can reach her office online or by calling (972) 818-1300.