The start of a new year is an excellent time to take stock and address issues we’ve perhaps neglected. These can include projects around the house, auto repairs, and visits to the doctor. As we kick off 2024, we’ve got an excellent opportunity to address another such concern: restoring our smiles to their brilliant best.
Fortunately, if your smile needs a helping hand to fulfill its million-dollar potential, there’s a wide range of safe, convenient, and effective at-home and professional teeth-whitening solutions.
What Is Teeth Whitening and How Does It Work?
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment in which chemically activated (usually with hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient) whitening agents are employed to reduce tooth discoloration and staining. As we mentioned, teeth whitening can be performed in a dentist’s office by a dentist or hygienist or at home via over-the-counter solutions available at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
Professional whitening is generally the most effective option. However, the suitability and effectiveness of different teeth whitening treatments can vary from person to person. For many, over-the-counter “DIY” solutions can also offer excellent results with greater convenience.
Your At-Home Teeth Whitening Options
The most common at-home teeth whitening treatments, typically available over the counter, are whitening toothpastes, whitening strips, and mouthpiece-like whitening trays with whitening gels.
While cheaper than professional treatments, these DIY solutions generally take longer (often weeks) to yield results. This is because they contain less potent whitening agents. These solutions are generally best suited for less severe cases of discoloration.
It is important to mention that the instructions accompanying teeth whitening products must be followed meticulously to maximize results and prevent issues like tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional teeth whitening treatments, meanwhile, are performed in-office by a dentist or dental hygienist. These treatments tend to cost more than their at-home counterparts but offer several benefits:
- Professional whitening is usually completed in a single visit.
- As professional treatments use more concentrated whitening agents, they typically provide immediately noticeable results.
- Administration by a qualified dental professional ensures more even and effective application and less risk of tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.
Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening in Colorado Springs, CO
If you’re in the Colorado Springs area and want to learn more about all of your teeth whitening options, contact dentist Dr. Michael Terveen and the friendly and knowledgeable team at Springs Family Dental to schedule a consultation!