3 Advantages of Professional Tooth Whitening

On the market today, there are many products that claim they can whiten your teeth, as well as crowds of online gurus touting natural routes to a whiter smile. With all these alternatives in mind, take a look at why smart smilers are still choosing professional tooth whitening as their method of choice.

1. Professional Tooth Whitening Works Fast

If you are hoping for quick results, professional tooth whitening is a much better option than at-home kits, whitening strips or whitening toothpaste. It's certainly much more effective than most natural home remedies, which often don't work at all.

While whitening toothpastes, strips and kits can gradually break down stains, only professional tooth whitening can immediately restore the natural whiteness of your smile. Dentists use high-powered bleaching agents that are only approved for use by professionals. Kits contain much lower concentrations of bleach, which means they work much more slowly.

2. Professional Tooth Whitening Is Safe

Although home whitening products are safe if you use them according to their instructions, any off-label use can be dangerous. For example, leaving whitening trays on the teeth for too long can lead to sensitivity of the teeth or gums.

You might assume that natural tooth whitening remedies — for example using mashed fruit, lemon juice or baking soda — are harmless. In fact, these methods often involve putting acids in contact with the teeth for long periods of time or scrubbing them with an abrasive material such as baking soda. Both these actions can damage tooth enamel, leading to an increased risk of cavities. Professional tooth whitening is not only more effective but is also a much safer option.

3. Professional Tooth Whitening Procedures Are Tailored to Your Needs

When you visit a dentist for tooth whitening, they will first examine your teeth to make sure they are healthy. If you have problems with thin enamel or sensitive teeth, you can still undergo professional tooth whitening, but you might need some accommodations to make it suitable for you. For example, the dentist can apply a desensitising paste to prevent your teeth from feeling sensitive after the whitening procedure. They can also use a lower concentration of bleaching agent to strip away stains more gradually, possibly over multiple treatment sessions. Whatever your individual oral health needs may be, a dentist can work with you to make sure you get the bright, white smile you desire.