PROFESSIONAL WHITENING VS. OVER-THE-COUNTER
With a significant rise in the desire for a whiter smile, over-the-counter teeth whitening options have flooded the market over the last few years. Everything from toothpastes to rinses to strips to more extensive at-home kits have become available.
As a result, patients often ask us:
Is professional in-office whitening better than the over-the-counter products available?
We may be biased, but our short answer is “Yes.” As Bloomington’s most trusted cosmetic dental professionals, our experience is that over-the-counter (OTC) products yield some results while also having significant limitations.
1. OTC PRODUCTS ARE WEAKER
Much in the same way your family doctor can prescribe stronger medicine than you can buy over-the-counter, dental professionals are permitted to use a stronger, more effective concentration of whitening agents.
2. OTC PRODUCTS IMPACT SENSITIVE TEETH AND GUMS
If you have sensitive teeth or gums, we do not recommend using OTC whitening products. Without professional application, the chemical makeup of many whitening agents often impact sensitive teeth or gums. At Liberty, we closely monitor your sensitivity during any professional teeth whitening experience.
3. PROFESSIONAL WHITENING MEANS A PERFECT FIT
The tooth blueprint in every mouth is almost as unique as a fingerprint. While OTC products designed for the masses may be fairly capable of molding to the general structure of your smile, comprehensive coverage is a challenge.
With our professionally fitted take-home whitening trays, we are able to shape your whitening experience to perfectly match your unique smile.
4. PROFESSIONAL WHITENING YIELDS QUICKER RESULTS
By using professional-grade whitening agents, Liberty’s personally fitted take-home whitening trays deliver quicker results.
5. WE FIND THE BEST OPTION FOR YOU
While whitening may be a good option for you, in some cases porcelain veneers or other cosmetic options may be more suitable for your specific situation. Consulting Liberty’s cosmetic dental professionals provides you with an expert opinion for the best way to improve your smile.
If you want a whiter, brighter smile, we highly recommend professional treatment. Please contact us today to discover your best way to a better smile!