Tooth whitening: with or without a dentist?

“Dear doctor! I cannot find the price for a whitening session on your website. I have heard a lot of negative things about at home whitening kits, though. Which one would you recommend? And what do you think of tooth whitening procedures that are done in malls? Aren’t those dangerous? Thank you in advance,

George”

Dear George,

Ever since January of last year, tooth whitening products cannot have a hydrogen peroxide content of no more than 6%. With this amount of hydrogen peroxide, the most effective treatment is the at home version, this is the one we recommend to our patients as well. This is also the most economical choice as well.

Many at home whiteners have a 15% carbamide peroxide level, which should be worn for 2-3 hours a day for a few days for optimal effect. If the tubes that the peroxide is administered in is made by a dentist, then you can be sure that your gums are also protected, and the tooth whitening system is safe. But it is good to have the number of a good dental hygienist on hand, just in case.

There are cheaper whitening products on the market though, that do not need a dentist at all. These are worse quality though,a dn the tubes that go over your teeth are not individualized, and can, on occasion, cause damage to the gums. It is important to note that getting your teeth professionally cleaned before getting any type of tooth whitening treatment is indispensable, and if you need dental work done, do it before you go for a whitening session. If you neglect to do this, the damage you cause yourself can be more expensive than the original bill would have been.

I usually use Opalescence, and this is the brand I prescribe to my patients as well, I have so far had only positive experiences with it.

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