Since we look at our teeth every day, there's a good chance that you noticed your smile is not as bright as you would like it to be. If you're weighing your options between at-home and professional teeth whitening, Dr. Mordena Sullen with MLK Dental Center in Atlanta, GA, is pleased to share the key differences in the procedure.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Performed by dental professionals, in-office teeth whitening is the safer and more efficient bleaching treatment. Any whitening agent consists of hydrogen peroxide, however, dentists are authorized to use bleaching gels with a higher concentration.
There are also different whitening treatment options, such as Zoom, LumiBrite, Opalescence, and Britesmile whitening. Your ideal treatment will likely be determined by your desired results, as well as the consideration of cost and application method.
Prior to treatment, your dentist in Atlanta, GA, Dr. Sullen, will prepare your teeth with a thorough cleaning to remove any plaque or food particles—confirming whether or not your teeth and gums are of ideal health.
A discussion between you and your dentist will help determine the best whitening treatment for you, but most procedures are similar and provide comparable results. Though you'll be able to immediately identify a difference in appearance, the final result will show after a few days.
At-Home Teeth Whitening Treatments
Undoubtedly, whitening your teeth at home offers perhaps the greatest appeal: convenience. Not only is it more cost-efficient, but you're also in the comfort of your own space. However, at-home procedures are less straightforward—there is an overwhelming number of products available, with varying processes of the application.
If electing to whiten your teeth at home, you may not see the results you desire over a short period of time. Naturally, any products you buy yourself and not through your dentist will have a much lower concentration of bleaching agents.
For best results, it's recommended to begin your own teeth whitening treatment after a dental cleaning, as your teeth are at their cleanest.
Main Differences
The results between at-home and in-office teeth whitening are unmatched—directly a result of the difference in hydrogen peroxide concentration. This also may cause you to use your at-home whitening treatment excessively, likely increasing your tooth sensitivity.
Enhance Your Smile With Professional Teeth Whitening
For lasting results, visit MLK Dental Center in Atlanta, GA, to brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening. Dr. Sullen is prepared to discuss the best whitening treatment for you, and encourages you to give our office a call at (404) 752-7777, to book your consultation today!
