With spring and summer on the way it’s a great time to think about updating your look! New clothes are fun, but have you ever considered the impact that simply whitening your teeth can give to your overall appearance? A whiter, brighter smile can give you the confidence boost that a new shirt may not. If you feel like it’s time for teeth whitening, Connolly Aesthetic Family Dentistry has some great options for you.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
The application of chemical agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, used in different concentrations is how teeth whitening is accomplished. When you work with your dental provider to whiten your teeth you may have the option of a take-home whitening system, or an in-office option. Both options have their benefits and will typically yield great results.
In-Office Whitening
These systems typically provide a great result in one or two office appointments of around one hour. High strength whitening gel is applied to your teeth and activated with a special light. The result of this treatment is immediate and effective and you will leave the same day with a brighter smile.
Take-Home Whitening
A take-home system offers you the convenience of whitening your teeth at your leisure based on your schedule. Your dentist will make you plastic trays that are custom fit to your mouth and you can use whitening gel with your trays to whiten at any time. Dentists typically have different strengths of gel to choose from, depending on your level of sensitivity. This option gives you the freedom to take a couple days off if your teeth are sensitive, or update before big events or vacations.
Professional Whitening vs. Over The Counter
It may seem more cost effective to purchase an over the counter option for whitening your teeth, however there are benefits that professional whitening systems offer that over the counter can not. The whitening gel that your dentist has access to is much stronger and more effective than whitening gel that is sold in stores. This means you won’t have to whiten as long to achieve the results that you’re looking for.
Professional take home trays are custom fit to your mouth in order to avoid the whitening gel causing damage to your gum tissue, lips or cheeks. Custom fit trays are also easier to work with. Over the counter systems often only focus on your front six teeth and you may have to update more often to maintain the shade you like.
At Connolly Aesthetic Family Dentistry, we have some great options to help you achieve a whiter brighter smile. Come in and chat with Dr. Christopher Connolly, Dr. John McCarty, and Dr. Christopher John Connolly to determine which of our options will best meet your needs. Contact our office today to learn more.
