Maybe it happened over time, maybe it has become more noticeable just recently, but whatever the case, if whitening your teeth is on your mind – have no fear because there are definitely solutions to bring your pearly whites back to their former glory!
Among the options available on the market today, consumers can choose to purchase over-the-counter whitening solutions or visit their local dentist for professional level teeth whitening. At Oak Road Dentistry, as part of our comprehensive dental services, we offer an array of cosmetic dentistry services, including teeth whitening.
What Are Teeth Whitening Strips?
Thanks to their affordability and convenience, at-home teeth whitening kits have become a popular choice for many. These kits usually contain a series of whitening strips, with two to a package, intended for use over a period ranging from several days up to several weeks. They are readily available online, at drugstores and supermarkets without need for a prescription or an appointment.
They are designed to whiten teeth at home by applying adhesive strips to both the bottom and top rows of teeth, similar to the way you might apply a bandage. The strips are backed with a peroxide formula that activates when it mixes with your saliva. After a set amount of time, usually 30 to 60 minutes, the strips are simply pulled away, the mouth is rinsed, teeth are brushed, and that’s it for each set.
But Do They Work?
With at-home teeth whitening strips, the teeth are whitened minimally with each application, so the process is repeated for a number of days or weeks until the complete kit has been used or until desired results are achieved. A formulation of hydrogen peroxide acts as the whitening agent with these strips, and noticeable results can be achieved over time for some.
However, many patients find whitening strips to be a slow, uncomfortable process with lackluster results. The taste and feeling of wearing the strips can be unpleasant, finding the time to apply the strips can be challenging and for some who may have deeper discoloration, whitening strips just may not be the ideal choice. The good news is, a better solution may be as simple as a visit to your local dentist.
Professional Teeth Whitening
With professional teeth whitening, these are treatments that are administered by or available at your dentist’s office. These treatments contain a more potent formulation of carbamide peroxide and are designed to be far more powerful, with fast and effective results. In many cases, you will see a dazzling smile in just one application.
There are both in-office treatments that are usually complete in one to two visits using a bleaching gel, as well as at-home treatments to complete at your convenience using professional-grade products that are only available from your dentist. Thus, with the remarkable results that can be achieved with teeth whitening through your dentist, over-the-counter teeth whitening strips simply can’t compare.
Call Us About Teeth Whitening Today
Conveniently located in Snellville, GA, our office features state-of-the-art technology to deliver a full array of dental services – from general to restorative to cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening. Our kind and compassionate team is here to help you determine what options are best for you to get your smile shining bright once again. Contact our office today at 770-985-9559 to schedule a teeth whitening consultation, or request an appointment online.