If you are looking to achieve brighter teeth, you may be wondering what whitening method is best for you. There are two main types of teeth whitening: in-chair and at-home.
In-chair teeth whitening is done by a dental professional in a dental office, while home teeth whitening is done with an at-home kit that you can use in the comfort of your home. Both methods can be effective, but each has advantages and disadvantages.
In-chair teeth whitening is generally more expensive than home teeth whitening, but it can produce faster results. If you have sensitive teeth, in-chair teeth whitening may be a better option as your dentist can control the amount of bleach used and monitor the process closely to minimize discomfort.
Home teeth whitening kits are more affordable and can be just as effective as in-chair teeth whitening, although results may take longer. In addition, home teeth whitening is not a good choice for sensitive teeth, as you can’t control the amount of bleach used and you may have to stop the treatment if you experience any discomfort.
What are the types of home teeth whitening kits available?
There are two main types of home teeth whitening kits: those that use bleach and those that use abrasives. Bleach-based home teeth whitening kits typically use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the active ingredient. Abrasive-based home teeth whitening products usually contain baking soda, silica, or alumina. Both can offer decent results with regular use.
What causes discolouration of teeth?
Many things can cause teeth to become discoloured, including:
-Food and drink: Coffee, tea, red wine and cigarettes can all cause teeth to become stained.
-Age: As we age, our teeth can become darker due to changes in the enamel.
-Medications: Some medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause teeth to become discoloured.
-Trauma: Teeth that have been injured or knocked out may change colour.
Pros and Cons of In-chair teeth whitening
Pros
- Can produce faster results
- Suitable for people with sensitive teeth
Cons
- More expensive than home teeth whitening
- Treatment must be done by a dental professional only
Pros and Cons of Home teeth whitening
Pros
- Affordable option
- It can be done at home
Cons
- Results may take longer to achieve.
- You must follow the instructions carefully to avoid any gum or tooth damage.
After-care for in-chair and at-home teeth whitening?
After in-chair teeth whitening, your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your teeth. For example, you may be advised to avoid certain foods and drinks that can stain your teeth and use special toothpaste. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to maintain your results.
At-home teeth whitening kits usually come with after-care instructions. You should follow these carefully to avoid any gum or tooth damage. Some kits also come with a desensitizing gel that can be used after whitening to help reduce any discomfort.
Should I see a dentist before booking in for a teeth whitening procedure?
It is always a good idea to see a dentist before any teeth whitening procedure, whether in chair or at home. This is because a dentist can assess your teeth and gums to ensure teeth whitening is right for you and determine which method will be most effective. A dentist can also provide you with after-care instructions to help you maintain your results.
Which teeth whitening options offer permanent results?
No teeth whitening method offers permanent results. However, in-chair and home teeth whitening results can last for a long time with proper care. To help maintain your results, you should avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth and see your dentist for regular check-ups. You may also need to touch up your teeth with an at-home kit or in-chair treatment.
Are any of the two teeth whitening options included in insurance?
No, neither in-chair nor home teeth whitening is usually covered by insurance. However, some dental offices may offer financing options to help make the cost of in-chair teeth whitening more affordable.
In conclusion, both in-chair and home teeth whitening can be effective methods for achieving brighter teeth. The best choice for you depends on your budget and comfort level. If you have sensitive teeth, in-chair teeth whitening may be the best option, as your dentist can control the amount of bleach used and monitor the process closely to minimize discomfort. Home teeth whitening is a good choice for a more affordable option, although results may not be as good and quick as an in-chair treatment.
To know your best option, connect with our team of experts. Call us on (03) 9646 2577 or email at [email protected] for appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are take-home whitening treatments safe?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the safety of take-home whitening treatments can vary depending on the treatment used and the individual’s oral health history. However, most take-home whitening treatments are considered safe when used as directed by a dentist. It is crucial to remember that any bleaching treatment can cause tooth sensitivity, so it’s essential to consult with your dentist before beginning any whitening treatment. And if you experience any discomfort or irritation while using a take-home whitening treatment, be sure to stop using it and contact your dentist immediately.
Are take-home whitening kits as effective as in-chair whitening treatments?
It depends on the individual and what kind of condition their teeth are in. If you have relatively good oral hygiene habits and want to achieve a shade or two brighter smiles, then at-home treatments might be ideal since they are typically less expensive. However, if you have extrinsic or intrinsic staining that hasn’t responded well to home care measures, then in-chair whitening administered by a dental professional may be your best bet. In-chair whitening generally produces better results because it uses higher concentrations of bleaching agents than take-home kits.
