Whitening your teeth is one of the 
easiest and most effective ways to make a big difference in your smile.
But with so many whitening products and services available, it can be difficult to know which ones will actually work for you and provide you with the results you’re looking for, and which ones will just be a waste of time and money.
It’s helpful if you know what to expect from using whitening products at home versus having your teeth whitened in a dentist’s office. Here, we explain the differences so you can make the best choice for you.
At-Home Whitening
There are a wide variety of at-home whitening products available, including trays, strips, toothpastes, and mouthwashes.
- The whitening products available in the drugstore can make a difference in your smile, but you should keep in mind that you’re not likely to achieve a smile that’s several shades whiter. For people who are looking to achieve only slightly whiter teeth rather than a bright white smile, whitening at home may be sufficient.
- Products that contain whitening ingredients may be good products to integrate into your daily routine if you want to counteract staining agents, such as coffee. It can’t hurt!
- Our cosmetic dentists can provide you with bleaching trays to use at home over time. However, you’ll need to be disciplined enough to use them as directed. Some patients find it easier to just undergo a whitening treatment in-office.
In-Office Whitening Treatments
If you want a whiter smile as quickly as possible, or if you want to significantly whiten your smile, in-office whitening is your best option.
Instead of the several days or weeks it takes to whiten with at-home treatments, professional whitening can whiten your teeth several shades in a single appointment. Whitening appointments generally last about an hour. You’ll leave with a noticeable difference in the shade of your teeth.
With in-office whitening, a strong whitening gel is applied to the teeth and then activated by a special light. There’s no need to do anything besides sit back and relax.
Some patients do experience some sensitivity following teeth whitening, but this is temporary and can be treated with an over-the-counter painkiller.
If you’d like a whiter smile but you’re not sure what would be the best option for you, the best thing to do is to schedule a consultation at Fixari Family Dental. Let our experienced cosmetic dentists help you determine the best way for you to get the smile you desire.