Fast facts

Teeth whitening


What it is: Tooth whitening is usually achieved with bleach, at a dentist's office, where they use custom-fitted trays that are placed over your teeth. At-home teeth whitening kits, while cheaper, may be less effective and can take longer to see results.


What it addresses:  Tooth coloration problems, including:

- Discolored teeth
- Yellow teeth
- Stained teeth


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Question

Should I whiten my teeth at home or go to a dentist?


Asked by: Anonymous

Answers (6)

Sort by: Most recent | Most helpful
1
August 9, 2007

Don't be tempted to buy kits over-the-counter or on the Internet. Not only are they not made to fit your mouth exactly, it may be that bleaching isn't suitable for you, especially if you have gum disease or crowns.

2
August 8, 2007

In-office whitening is best. Provides maximum whitening with minimal effort, time and has the least sensitivity. Professionally supervision ensures effectiveness and safety.

3
August 8, 2007

Professional tooth whitening from a dentist is always recommended. Your dentist can check for gum diseases, as well as loose fillings. He/she will be able to fit you for trays as well.

When using the over-the-counter bleachers, there is a chance your teeth may get over-bleached. The reason I designed a whitening system (SuperSmile) was because I wanted to make sure there wasn’t a chance for over-bleaching or sensitivity. The product can work on crowns, veneers, and natural teeth, as well as dentures.

4
July 25, 2007

The only home bleaching kits you should be using are ones recommended by your dentist. They need to monitor the product and the reaction to the gums.

5
July 25, 2007

The most important thing to look for in at-home kits is that they fit the size and shape of your teeth. Example, whitening strips are straight across and your teeth are scalloped. Make sure the at-home bleaching kits cover your whole tooth otherwise you will have two toned teeth or irritated gums.

6
July 24, 2007

No one said beauty is cheap or easy to get. We all have to work hard, but if you need to make your life easier, then using home bleaching kits from the drugstore can give you a flash of white teeth. Do not expect for this to last long.

Best results are accomplished with dentist prescribed whitening. Both in-office or at-home dentist prescribed whitening treatments will give you faster and longer-lasting results. If your teeth are healthy and somewhat white, you can get a boost from over-the-counter products, but again, they will not last long.

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