Over the Counter vs. Professional Teeth Whitening: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to your teeth, you want to use the safest and most effective products. That’s why you have to be careful when choosing a method of brightening your smile. Certain types of teeth whitening can cause irritate your teeth and gums. That’s why you should consider professional teeth whitening in Hillsboro from your dentist. Read more below to learn whether professional or over the counter whitening is right for you.

Why Teeth Need to Be Whitened

Besides improving the quality of your smile, teeth whitening can boost your confidence and even make you look more intelligent and successful. But why do teeth become discolored or stained in the first place? There are several reasons, including:

• The natural aging process
• Use of tobacco
• Ingesting staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, tomato sauce, and berries
• Poor dental hygiene
• Certain medications
• Genetics
• Excessive fluoride consumption

No matter the cause of your dental discoloration, you could benefit from teeth whitening. Let’s take a closer look at the two types of whitening.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

You can find these at most pharmacies or even grocery stores. They typically consist of plastic trays that you apply a bleaching gel to and wear over your teeth. They may also come in the form of strips that are worn over the teeth. However, the strength of the bleaching agent is usually not as strong as the treatment you would receive in your dentist’s office.

Professional Treatment from Your Dentist

Your dentist can craft custom-made trays that fit more snugly over your teeth that the one-size-fits-all options available at the drugstore. In addition, the bleaching gel is significantly more potent. You can also achieve quicker results, as treatment can be completed in one sitting. However, this choice is more expensive than the cheap treatments from the pharmacy.

Which One Should You Choose?

Overall, you would benefit much more from a professional whitening treatment from your cosmetic dentist in Hillsboro. The higher cost is worth it for better, longer-lasting results. Also, your dentist can supervise the entire treatment, even if you choose the at-home option. If you have sensitive teeth, this is much better news for you. Store-bought whitening kits may irritate your teeth and gums. If you let your dentist know you have sensitive teeth, he or she may adjust the strength of the bleaching gel accordingly.

Ultimately, the whitening treatment you choose is up to you. However, when you look at the facts, whitening in your dentist’s office clearly provides the most benefits. Ask your dentist if they offer professional whitening treatments today.

About the Author

Dr. Brandon Kearbey is a 2006 graduate of Loma Linda University. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Oregon Dental Association, the National Dental Honor Society, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, so he has the expertise needed to make your smile shine brighter. To get your teeth whitened by an expert you can trust, call (503) 640-4262 or click here.