Best Teeth Whitening Options

Professional teeth whitening can be a good choice for people looking for an effective teeth whitening treatment. The results of in-office, dentist teeth whitening are generally safe and long lasting, making it a popular option for patients who desire quick and noticeable changes. If you’re seriously considering having your teeth whitened professionally, it’s a good idea to get a solid understanding of the treatment and what goes into it before you begin. Read on for a brief description of the dentist teeth whitening process.

How Does In-Office Teeth Whitening Work?

In-office teeth whitening is a relatively simple process. The dentist applies a powerful bleaching gel to the patient’s teeth and then, if necessary uses a laser to help activate the chemicals. Some patients experience sensitivity in their teeth and gums, however it usually goes away after a short time. In-office treatments usually last 1-2 hours and, although results are often seen immediately, more than one session may be required to reach the patient’s desired shade. Most of the time no more than a few sessions are necessary. Because in-office teeth whitening is classified as cosmetic, most insurance plans won’t cover it. This can be a problem for some patients because the dentist whitening procedures can cost anywhere from $300-$2000. Professional teeth whitening usually lasts anywhere from 6-18 months at your teeth’s most white. After that they begin to discolor again, depending on your eating and drinking and hygiene habits. Taking good care of your newly whitened teeth and limiting foods and drinks that are known to stain can help extend the life of your treatment.

There is an Alternative to Teeth Bleaching

If you decide that for whatever reason bleaching isn’t the best option for your teeth, you may want to look into veneers. Most commonly used in situations where the teeth are chipped, cracked or crooked, veneers serve to create a well-aligned and bright smile. Veneers are made of either porcelain or composite resin molds that are created custom to your teeth and then glued on for a strong, lasting fit. Porcelain veneers can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars per tooth, making them an expensive alternative. For someone with healthy teeth, veneers probably aren’t the best choice as their primary purpose is to shape, strengthen and protect already damaged teeth. Those that have adequate enamel on stained or discolored teeth should stick to whitening.

There’s got to be a Less Expensive Teeth Whitening Option

If the dentist teeth whitening and veneers options outlined above are priced too high for your budget, there are other options. At-home whitening kits are available and are nearly as effective as professional treatments at a significantly lower price. Should you decide you still want to whiten, while not spending your life savings in the process, take a look at the different types of home teeth whitening options that are out there.