Despite everyone wearing face masks, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone who does not want to have a bright, pearly smile. It is no surprise, then, that the popularity of teeth whitening has been and still is on a continuous rise. Whether you prefer to invest in professional teeth whitening in Tampa, Florida, or you are considering using a teeth whitening kits at home, there are countless options to choose from.
With so many options, it is only natural to wonder whether they are all equally good. (Spoiler alert: They are not!) Here at North Pointe Dental Associates, home to some of the best dentists in Tampa, we specialize in all types of cosmetic dentistry. Today, we share everything you need to know about professional teeth whitening vs. at-home teeth whitening kits.
What the slick infomercials do NOT tell you
At-home teeth whitening kits available over the counter may sound like a quick, affordable solution but can actually do more harm than good. In some cases, they can even damage your teeth or gums. And in the long run, they rarely are the more affordable option.
At-home teeth whitening kits, unlike in-office professional teeth whitening, require daily use to create even the slightest results. The results of in-office treatments, on the other hand, are immediately evident and last for a much more extended period. In fact, you might need to spend 1-2 hours at the dentist’s office and leave with teeth up to eight shades whiter.
Pre-treatment examination is critical to avoid tooth sensitivity
The number one complaint we hear from patients is that at-home teeth whitening kits make their teeth sensitive to cold or hot foods and drinks and create no results. This can easily be avoided by scheduling an appointment for a checkup and cleaning before the actual teeth whitening. Your dentist will make sure there are no cavities, plaque buildup, or gum issues that might make the procedure uncomfortable.
Every dentist in Tampa will tell you that patients with cracked teeth, cavities, or gum disease are not good candidates for teeth whitening and can help you address the issue before proceeding with the treatment.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening kits fail to ensure an evenly white smile
Professional teeth whitening uses highly concentrated peroxide and carbamide bleaching gel which whiten the teeth. On the other hand, at-home teeth whitening kits only clean the surface stains on the tooth without changing the color.
Professional dentists will ensure that your teeth are evenly colored, even with porcelain crowns, which whitening kits cannot whiten. Your dentist can help you avoid the embarrassment of discolored teeth and match the natural look of your teeth.
Schedule your appointment today!
North Pointe Dental Associates is home to the best North Tampa dentists specializing in general and cosmetic dentistry. If you are not sure whether you are a good candidate for teeth whitening or you want to schedule your next appointment, give us a call at (813) 961-1727, and our friendly staff will be more than happy to help you.
