How Teeth Whitening Treatment From the Dentist Differs From Over-the-Counter Products

October 12, 2024

Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry service. When choosing how to whiten your teeth, should you use over-the-counter products or professional assistance from a dentist? Read on to learn more.

Dazzling white teeth boost your confidence. While we would like to have a beautiful Hollywood smile, the reality is daily life takes a toll on it. Fortunately, there are teeth whitening services. 

But how do you know which treatment to choose? Should you purchase something at the drugstore and give it a go at home? Or should you go to your dentist for a professional whitening option?  

In this blog, our highly experienced team of dentists at Mowry Dental in Fremont, California, gives you the lowdown on the teeth whitening options available and how to decide what’s best for you.
 

Teeth whitening options explained

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry services. Not surprisingly, the ever-increasing popularity of teeth whitening has led to many treatment choices. 

Over-the-counter or online whitening products 

At your neighborhood retail store or online, there’s a seemingly ever-growing list of products, like whitening pens strips, gels, toothpastes, and whitening kits. These options appeal to the do-it-yourself person who performs the service at home. Unfortunately, they don’t always produce stunning results. 

Professional in-office whitening

Professional whitening with an experienced dentist is the gold standard. All you have to do is call for an appointment. During your whitening session, you relax while our team does all the work. Professional whitening is more potent than anything you can buy over the counter.  

Dentist-provided whitening trays

If you want professional help from your dentist but on your own time from the comfort of your home, dentist-provided whitening trays are an excellent option. Our team provides custom-fitted whitening trays with professional strength whitening agents. We also provide detailed instructions. 

We offer both in-office whitening treatments and take-home whitening kits for your convenience.

Strength of whitening agents

Are in-office whitening treatment options really worth the time and effort? Yes. They are stronger or more potent than over-the-counter products. 

The whitening agents found in OTC teeth whitening products are made from peroxide-based – carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. They are provided in lower concentrations when compared to in-office professional whitening services. 

The time investment factor

Because over-the-counter products aren’t as strong as in-office whitening treatment options, they take longer to work, especially if your teeth are heavily stained. With professional whitening treatments, you can have a brilliant smile in just one visit to Mowry Dental.  

If you want to brighten your smile, call Mowry Dental at 510-794-7900 to schedule a consultation. You can also book your appointment online.

Learn More About Dentistry

No White Coats. No Judgements. No Pressure. A team first approach, that takes dentistry very seriously but not ourselves. A place to laugh, be healthy, have fun, and be family. Dentistry done best!

510-794-7900

39355 California St, Suite 100, Fremont, CA 94538