close up of woman's perfect smileA beautiful smile can boost your confidence and add to your overall appeal. That’s why approximately 37 million Americans choose to brighten their smiles with teeth whitening agents. 

Over-the-counter whiteners claim that people can effectively whiten their teeth in the comfort and convenience of their own homes. But are store-bought teeth brighteners as effective as professional teeth whitening? The simple answer is: no.

Here, we’ll show you why not all teeth-whitening products are created equally. Additionally, we’ll give you five reasons why professional teeth brightening is well worth it.   

The Problem With Over-The-Counter Whitening Products

Whether you’re using whitening toothpaste or whitening strips, you might encounter some unwanted problems.

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste usually contains abrasive ingredients that are designed to aid in the whitening process. However, these abrasive substances can wear down tooth enamel over time. Thinning or worn tooth enamel leaves teeth vulnerable to sensitivity, more staining, and cavities.

Whitening Strips and Trays

Generally, store-bought whitening strips and trays come in a one-size-fits-all format. However, teeth size and shape will vary from person to person. Therefore, over-the-counter whitening strips and trays may not properly cover your teeth. Subsequently, ill-fitting strips and trays will lead to patchy results, gum irritation, and tooth sensitivity.   

5 Reasons for Professional Whitening

If store-bought whiteners deliver good results, then professional teeth whiteners deliver superb results. Let’s explore five reasons why.

Safer Than Over-The-Counter Whiteners

It’s no secret that teeth-whitening agents are strong chemicals. Therefore, it’s easy for the average person to accidentally damage their tooth enamel. However, a trained dental professional is highly qualified and trained to administer teeth-whitening agents safely and effectively.

Customized Treatment

Store-bought whiteners are not designed to cater to individual needs. Consequently, people will have varying results that may or may not be desirable. However, professional teeth whitening with a trained dentist will ensure that patients are getting custom-made treatment with fantastic results every time.   

Faster, Longer-Lasting Results

Generally, store-bought whiteners require consistent treatment over several weeks to achieve the desired results. However, professional in-office teeth whitening can deliver results in a single dental visit. Additionally, patients who get professional whitening treatments will enjoy a brighter smile for a longer period of time.

Cost-Effective

Globally, analysts estimate that cosmetic teeth whitening is a $3.2 billion industry. It’s clear that people are willing to spend money to attain a perfect smile, but store-bought whiteners might be a waste of money. Unfortunately, if over-the-counter whitening products deliver poor results, then people will just spend more money on another store-bought whitening product. 

The sad truth is that store-bought whiteners may never deliver the results people desire. However, professional teeth whitening is designed to deliver noticeable results that safely meet each patient’s desired outcome.

Comfortable and Convenient

Many dentists offer teeth-whitening treatments in-office, but they may also provide effective take-home whitening kits. Patients who choose to whiten their teeth in-office will generally get a noticeably whiter smile in as little as one hour. Patients who choose professional take-home whitening kits can typically get the same results over the course of a couple of weeks. Whether it’s in-office or take-home, professional whitening delivers dazzling results safely, effectively, and comfortably. 

Professional Teeth Whitening in Denver, CO

At Metropolitan Dental Care, we offer a wide range of cosmetic dental services, including professional whitening. If you’re ready to get the brilliant smile you’ve always wanted, then contact our Denver office today. We’ll get you smiling with pride in no time! Request an appointment online or call us at (303) 534-2626.