Over-the-Counter Whitening Kits vs. Professional Teeth Whitening

Most people associate bright white smiles with proper self-care, beauty, and good health. For this reason, teeth whitening tops the list of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments in Asheville.

If you’re looking to brighten up your smile, you’re probably wondering if professional whitening treatments are better than the pastes, gels, and whitening strips you can purchase at your local drugstore. We’re here to give you the information you need.

OTC Whitening Kits vs. Professional Teeth Whitening: Which Is Better?

Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Kits

Besides being available at your convenience, at-home teeth whitening kits are a more affordable alternative to professional teeth whitening. As a result, many people would use these products rather than make a quick trip to the dentist.

However, it’s worth noting that OTC kits use carbamide peroxide, an active ingredient that doesn’t produce the results most users are looking for. The usual carbamide peroxide solution for at-home use only has between three to four percent of hydrogen peroxide, the ingredient that whitens teeth. Consequently, you may have to wait for weeks or even months before it produces weak results that don’t last long.  

While some users may be lucky enough to achieve their whitening goals, they end up disappointed when they find out the results can only last for a week or two. Furthermore, those desperate to have a long-lasting white smile may spend more on failed OTC whitening treatments over an extended period.

In addition, OTC products are likely to produce uneven whitening results if applied without a dentist’s supervision. They also increase the likelihood of gum irritation when gum tissue comes into contact with the whitening solution.  

Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment

Professional teeth whitening solutions are pricier than drugstore products and require dental consultation and appointment. However, they’re more effective and safer than OTC whitening kits.  

While OTC teeth whitening solutions use a low concentration of bleaching ingredients, dental professionals use treatments that contain around 25% to 40% hydrogen peroxide. This chemical compound is difficult to use at home because heat, light, and saliva can break it down before it has a chance to be effective. For this reason, dentists use a special light to speed up the whitening process and guarantee lasting results.

Unlike OTC at-home kits with self-forming trays that weren’t explicitly designed for your teeth, a professional teeth whitening solution involves a custom-designed whitening tray. Since the tray seals your teeth from the rest of your mouth, it prevents saliva from breaking down the hydrogen peroxide and compromising the bleaching process. When the whitening gel does its job without interference, you can expect nothing less than your desired results.

Besides using a higher concentration of the bleaching element and custom-made trays, professional teeth whitening treatments are safer than OTC kits. Although it uses a higher concentration of the bleaching element, a dental professional ensures your safety during the process.

With professional teeth whitening application, you won’t have to wait weeks to see dramatic changes to your smile. Your dentist can eliminate stains and brighten your teeth up to seven shades after a few minutes of whitening. You’ll walk out of the dental office with a noticeably whiter smile.

Looking for an Expert in Cosmetic Dentistry in Asheville?

At Cataloochee Dental Group, we understand that your smile is your best asset. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to helping you achieve your smile goals. Contact us today to make an appointment.