Professional whitening compared to over-the-counter kits

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Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment designed to brighten your natural smile by reducing the appearance of stains and discolouration. Over time, factors such as food, drink, smoking, ageing, and certain medications can cause teeth to darken. Professional teeth whitening by your dentist offers a safe, effective solution by using clinically approved whitening agents under dental supervision, delivering noticeable, even results while protecting your teeth and gums.

This blog helps to explain why professional teeth whitening with a dental professional is the safer option over using over-the-counter whitening products that can be purchased from a supermarket or pharmacy.

Teeth Whitening at Toftwood Dentist

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment which uses chemicals to lighten the colour of your natural teeth. Whitening can reduce stains and discolouration from coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, ageing, and certain medications.

Professional teeth whitening uses clinically approved whitening agents to break down these stains, helping your smile look brighter and more refreshed. When carried out or supervised by a dental professional, whitening is a safe and effective way to enhance your smile while protecting your tooth enamel and gums.

Interested in teeth whitening?

Book an appointment with Toftwood Dental today and discover whether teeth whitening could be right for you.

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How teeth whitening works?

Professional teeth whitening uses a safe whitening gel, usually containing hydrogen peroxide, to lighten the natural colour of your teeth. The process works by:

  • Penetrating the enamel to reach deeper stains within the tooth.
  • Breaking down the stains caused by food, drink, smoking, and ageing.
  • Lightening the tooth colour without damaging or removing tooth structure.
  • Professional teeth whitening is carefully controlled by dental professionals to protect your teeth and gums.
  • Creating a brighter and more even looking smile.

Over-the-counter whitening

  • Poor fit – “One size fit’s all” trays or whitening strips can lead to patchy or inconsistent whitening. As everybody has different sized jaws, it is very unlikely these whitening trays will feel comfortable in the mouth.
  • Irritation – Incorrect use can cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
  • Less effective – Lower whitening strength often means less noticeable results. In the UK whitening products sold in shops are limited to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide to ensure safety.
  • No dental assessment – Underlining issues like decay or gum disease are not addressed, therefore untreated prior to whitening.
  • Enamel risk – Incorrect product use can damage enamel or worsen existing sensitivity.

Professional whitening

Teeth whitening carried out by a dental professional is a much safer and reliable option with guaranteed results. Clinical before photos may be taken on your initial consultation process to ensure whitening progress is being made throughout your journey.

  • Safer treatment – Supervised by a dental professional at all times to protect your teeth and gums.
  • Better results – Stronger, clinically approved whitening agents for more noticeable whitening.
  • Professional whitening products use a higher percentage of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide than over the counter. These products with a higher percentage can only be provided on prescription by a dental professional.
  • Even finish – Custom made trays ensure consistent, natural looking results.
  • Tailored treatment plan and care – Treatment is customised to your teeth, goals, and sensitivity levels.
  • Longer lasting results – Professional whitening tends to last longer with proper aftercare.
  • Expert guidance – Your dentist can advise on maintaining results and reducing sensitivity.
Before and After Teeth Whiting with Toftwood Dental

Why should I get my teeth whitened by a Dental professional and not use a shop bought product?

When it comes to deciding whether you should get your teeth whitened by a Dental Professional or buy a whitening kit from a shop, it is very important you carry out your research. Although shop bought whitening kits may seem like they are a more affordable option, there are many reasons for their price tag. There are many different products on the market, but they will never be able to deliver the result you are looking for in a safe way.

  • Results – Professional teeth whitening uses stronger but carefully administered chemical agents which can lighten teeth up to 16 shades. Shop bought kits use a low whitening agent or use a “blue light technology” which is just a placebo effect. The bright blue light is often just used as a timer rather than an activating agent.
  • Customisation – Most of shop bought products are usually “one size fits all” which is not true. Everyone has a different sized jaw, which usually varies in width. Using a whitening tray that doesn’t fit your mouth correctly, may lead to the whitening agent to spill out of the edges, or not even meet the teeth at all. Dental professionals use custom made trays by taking impressions, this way it ensures the gel stays on the teeth, providing an even, effective coverage without leaking.
  • Safety and protection – Sometimes, you may not be applicable to undergo teeth whitening. It is advisable that you have your dental health checked first to ensure you are suitable for whitening. Whitening may not be applicable if you have dental caries, or poor gum health. A dentist will ensure to carry out any treatment confirming your mouth is stable to start whitening treatment.
  • Long lasting results – Professional dental treatments can often last longer, usually up to 2 years with regular reviews
Professional Whitening Kit From Toftwood Dental

Are you a good candidate for teeth whitening?

Not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening. You are usually a good candidate for teeth whitening if:

  • Your teeth are healthy and there is no tooth decay present or active gum disease.
  • Your discolouration is from staining from tea, coffee, wine, smoking or some food.
  • You do not have front white fillings, crowns or veneers.
  • You are not pregnant or breast feeding.
  • You do not suffer from severe teeth whitening.

Teeth whitening is an effective cosmetic treatment that can significantly enhance the appearance of your smile when carried out safely and correctly. While over the counter whitening products may appear convenient and more cost effective, they often deliver limited and uneven, with potential risks to your enamel and gums. In contrast, professional teeth whitening is carefully assessed and supervised by a dental professional to ensure both safety and optimal results. Ultimately, choosing professional teeth whitening ensures not only a brighter smile but also the protection of your overall oral health.

You can contact Toftwood Dental Practice to arrange a consultation to discuss teeth whitening in more detail.

“This content is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for personal advice”

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