Teeth Whitening
Hollywood Smiles with Teeth Whitening
Whitening products all work the same way, but over-the-counter products contain a different concentration of chemicals than professional whitening systems. The bleach type solution gets down into the tooth enamel and sets off a chemical reaction, breaking apart the staining compounds. This is an oxidization process that uses carbamide peroxide, or hydrogen peroxide, similar to products used to bleach hair.
Most dental offices will offer two types of professional whitening, an in-office treatment or a take-home treatment. Prior to starting any whitening system, it is important to have the teeth cleaned and any cavities or gum health issues taken care of.
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The in-office procedure
involves application of the peroxide based product and utilizing a high intensity light or laser to enhance the whitening. One example of this type of system is Zoom Whitening. The solution strength can vary from 15-35% carbamide peroxide gel and is applied several times, rinsed off and reapplied, getting teeth an average of four to six shades lighter in less than an hour.
Take-home whitening systems
can utilize the same concentration of peroxide but tend to have flavoring or fluoride added for improved taste and reduced sensitivity. Custom fit whitening trays are made and patients are sent home with the trays, whitening gel and instructions. Dispensing the solution into the trays and wearing them for up to 2 hours a day can get a similar result as in-office treatments, but it may take up to two weeks. Both in-office and at-home procedures are considered safe, if done under the supervision of the dentist.
Products sold over the counter for teeth whitening utilize the same active ingredients, but in lower concentration. Ease of use and minimal expense make these products attractive to the average consumer. The drawbacks are these systems are hard to regulate and may not provide adequate coverage since they are not customized for the individual patient. Whitening toothpastes act with an abrasive agent and may include peroxide but isn’t left on the teeth long enough to get the whitening benefit.
Costs for the different whitening products vary significantly based on the system. In-office and take-home professional systems can range anywhere from $150-$1,000. The over-the-counter products are much less expensive, ranging from $10-$50, but to get similar results as the professional systems may require multiple purchases, thus reducing the actual savings.
Patients interested in Getting that Hollywood Smile, should talk with the dentist about what system would work best for them, getting them the desired results. Specific things to consider are, how much does it cost, and how quickly will it work. Depending on the patient needs, the dentist can recommend a system suited for their individual preferences.
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