Dentist Questions Tooth Whitening

Professional tooth whitening better than OTC whitening strips?

I am thinking about whitening my teeth. Is professional tooth whitening better than over the counter whitening strips?

12 Answers

Yes, and quicker. Following up with strips helps keep them white.
In terms of getting your teeth their whitest, I would say use trays with doctor purchased gel. Dentists can sell gel strength of up to 35%
OTC is usually 10%, so it takes much longer to get good results
Yes it is. Remember the motto, you get what you pay for
All over-the-counter medications have are modified. Before tooth whitening, you should see your dentist. If you have not been flossing and brushing daily, your gums may be irritated. Many patients have used over-the-counter whitening systems including strips. Even though the percentage of whitening agents is reduced, patients had a significant level of irritation and discomfort. The FDA places restrictions on how high the percentage of whitening agents can be. Professional whitening strips have the highest level. If it is time for a checkup, visit your dentist. While your teeth are being cleaned, ask questions about home care. Ask how to floss. Make sure you brush correctly. Home care has to be done daily. You can find out the cost of professional whitening strips. Then you can decide what you want.
Yes, it will make your teeth look whiter and brighter. There may be sensitive to cold for a few days.
Of course professional whitening is better than OTC whitening, if you visit your dentist. He can check the teeth prior, so no sensitivity or leaking filings can jeopardize your experience. Learn more by clicking here:

https://best.celebritydentist.com/teeth-whitening/
Yes.
Hi,

I would start with OTC white strips first to see if you have any sensitivity. These products like Crest white strips have a very low percentage of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in them. They do seem to work on the younger generation and are very affordable. Only drawback is they tend to fall off the teeth quickly. In our office, we use Ultradent "Opalescence on the go" product, which we charge $70-$80. These are comfortable trays which come in different concentrations like 10% or even 20% to 35% and are comfortable to wear for 30-60 minutes. We also do in-office whitening as a last resort, but it takes an hour in the dental chair and costs $400-$600. I hope this helps you decide. I would start with the first two suggestions and see how you like the results. ALSO, cut back on things that stain your teeth like coffee, red wine, smoking, tea, etc.
Yes, it is better. It is more even, reaches the full width of the front of the bleached teeth and it works faster.
Yes, stronger concentration of the product.
Professional tooth whitening uses prescription grade whitening levels which allows for greater changes in tooth color over a shorter period of time. It will take several additional OTC treatments to reach the same level of whitening that in office whitening will achieve.
Yes.