If your teeth look yellow or stained, you’re probably wondering how to safely whiten them. While store-bought whitening kits might seem convenient, they can’t give you the same quality results as professional treatment.
At your dental office, you’ll get:
- A customized whitening plan made just for your teeth
- Safe, effective treatments that actually work
- Professional supervision to protect your smile
Dr. Keith Boenning, a trusted dentist in Towson, MD, explains why professional whitening beats drugstore kits every time. With the dentist’s help, you can get a noticeably whiter smile that looks completely natural without streaks or spots. Why settle for one-size-fits-all when you can have a smile perfectly tailored to you?
If you’re looking to brighten your smile, you have two main options: professional whitening treatment at your dentist’s office or store-bought kits. While both aim to remove stains, they work very differently, and deliver very different results.
Professional Whitening: Customized Care for Your Best Smile
At your dentist’s office, you’ll get personalized treatment based on your specific needs. For natural teeth with live nerves, your dentist applies a professional-strength whitening gel to the tooth surfaces. They then use a special light to activate the bleaching agents while carefully monitoring the process to ensure consistent results. The treatment length varies depending on how discolored your teeth are and how white you want them to be.
For teeth that have had root canal treatment (non-vital teeth), the process is different. Since these teeth are discolored from the inside, your dentist places whitening gel inside the tooth itself, then seals it with a temporary filling. This internal bleaching effectively lightens the tooth from within.
During a consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and recommend the best approach for your unique situation. They can also address any underlying dental issues that might be causing discoloration, ensuring you get the best possible results.
The Truth About Store-Bought Whitening Kits
While drugstore whitening strips and trays might seem convenient, they come with significant limitations. These one-size-fits-all products can’t adjust to your specific tooth shape or staining patterns, often leading to uneven results. You might notice some improvement, but it probably won’t match what a professional can achieve.
More concerning are the potential risks. Without professional supervision, you’re more likely to experience tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or even damage to your enamel if used incorrectly. The whitening agents in these kits are less concentrated than professional formulas, which means you might spend more time and money trying to get results that still fall short.
The Smart Choice for Your Smile
Professional treatment is the clear winner. Your dentist has the expertise to:
- Evaluate your specific type of tooth discoloration
- Protect your gums and tooth enamel during treatment
- Adjust the whitening process for optimal comfort and results
- Address any underlying dental issues affecting your smile
While store-bought kits might seem cheaper upfront, professional whitening often proves more cost-effective in the long run. It delivers better longer-lasting results without the risks of DIY treatment.
If you’re ready for a whiter, brighter smile that looks completely natural, schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll help you achieve your smile goals safely and effectively without the guesswork.
Ask Your Dentist About Professional Whitening in Towson, MD
Boenning and Dancykier Dental Implants and Cosmetic Dentistry offer professional teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Towson, MD. Dr. Boenning also specializes in general and restorative dentistry, including tooth replacement solutions. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 410-324-2294.