What professional teeth whitening options do I have?

In-office methods and at-home procedures are both effective, and in-office typically produces a faster result but usually costs more. Depending on how fast you need results and your whitening budget, your dentists can offer several options for you to consider.

Today there are many options for the consumer, and whitening has become the most demanded procedure in dentistry. I always recommend asking your dentist first because teeth whitening is a process that penetrates the tooth to break up the stains. Some of the alternatives may be better for you than others; only your dentist can help in this decision.

If you need (or want) your teeth whiter right away, try an in-office power system like Zoom!. It is fast and easy but it requires care and close observation by a dental professional. I recommend that you take some whitener and a tray home with you as there is always some rebound as your teeth re-absorb moisture after they are whitened.

If you can wear a tray comfortably, this is a great alternative. Today’s tray whiteners are designed to be worn for as little as 30 minutes a day (while you read, commute, or even sleep) for just a few days. Since you whiten over time, there is no rebound.
Whitening has been proven to be safe and effective when used properly. One side effect for some people is temporary sensitivity and this goes away in a few hours with an analgesic.

One more thing, peroxide is an oxidizer which releases free radicals in the mouth. I recommend the use of an antioxidant paste after whitening like REVITIN to rebalance the oral environment and replace protective antioxidants lost during the whitening process.