Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Method of Teeth Whitening

If your teeth are discoloured or have staining on them, you might be considering teeth whitening. The three main methods of whitening your teeth include using home whitening systems, or going to your dentist either for tray whitening or laser whitening. Here are some things to think about when choosing from these different whitening methods.

Home Whitening Trays Only Have One Size

While the home whitening kits are effective for many people, this really depends on your teeth. The trays are meant to be one-size-fits-all, but since not everyone has the same alignment, size and shape of teeth, this isn't true. If your teeth are generally well-aligned, they probably work great for you. However, if you have teeth that have wide spaces between them, crooked teeth, or teeth that are smaller or larger than the average, then the kits likely don't fit well. This can have a negative effect on the results, causing some teeth to appear whiter than others based on how the trays fit on certain teeth.

Laser Whitening Is Done in a Single Visit

While laser whitening is often the most expensive teeth whitening procedure, it also has a variety of benefits. One of the main advantages is that it can be done in a single dental visit. By the time you leave the dental appointment, you already notice the whitening results. While the length of time it takes to complete laser whitening depends on how much whitening you need, you may get done during your lunch hour, after which you head back to work with your new Hollywood smile.

Professional Tray Whitening Provides Reusable Trays

Whitening trays aren't a bad option, but are much better when you get them from your dentist. These aren't one size, but are custom-made to fit your teeth. You do have to wait for them, since you first get impressions done, then wait for the dental lab to make the customised trays. However, once they're ready, you can keep reusing these trays to whiten your teeth at home as often as you like. The more you use them, the whiter your teeth will become. Your dentist provides you with the trays and whitening gel to use at your leisure.

In all cases, the teeth whitening isn't going to last forever. However, you can maintain the whitening treatment with proper oral hygiene and by avoiding dark liquids and foods like red berries, red wine, coffee, and tea. Speak to your dentist about other ways to maintain your whitened teeth.