Your Minneapolis dentist has no doubt heard plenty of requests for teeth whitening treatments, and fielded many questions about over-the-counter products, as well. With whitening toothpastes, rinses, strips and gels flooding the market, it’s pretty clear whitening has become a topic of interest.
According to an ABC report, bleaching is the most requested procedure at the dentist office for patients between 40 and 60 years old. That number is based on a 2003 American Dental Association survey. And since then, we’ve seen even more products coming onto the market. So, what do these products do and are they effective?
Before rushing into the use of any of these products, please consult with your Minneapolis dentist to minimize your risks.
In-office bleaching
A procedure by your Minneapolis dentist will be the quickest, most effective teeth whitening method you can pursue. It’s typically a 30- to 60-minute treatment, and for full effect, more than one appointment is necessary. However, you’ll usually see a significant difference after the first treatment.
This is the most expensive method of whitening your teeth, and it’s also possible that an over-the-counter option may work for you depending on the staining level on your teeth. So consult with your Minneapolis dentist and carefully consider what options first your situation best.
Whitening gels
These products are clear, peroide-based gels that are applied with a brush to the surface of your teeth. Usually, you’ll apply the gel twice a day for a set period, such as two weeks.
Whitening strips
These are thin, nearly invisible stripst hat are coated with the peroxide-based whitening gel. They are also applied twice daily, for about 14 days.
Tray-based whiteners
These systems, which be bought over the counter or from a dentist, involve filling a tray with the gel solution — which contains peroxide-bleaching agent. The tray is worn in your mouth. Length of time and frequency usually depends on the level of whitening you desire.
Whitening toothepastes
These are not worth your time if you’re serious about whitening your teeth. While they may work slightly better than a regular toothepaste, they generally will not remove any significant staining.
Talk to your Minneapolis dentist
At-home whitening products are not as strong as those at the dentist’s office, for obvious safety reasons. Even so, over-the-counter kits may still make you teeth or gums sensitive with use. Good Housekeeping Research Institute ranked the top four over-the-counter whitening kits — all of which were strips and trays, no toothpastes — but for best results, consult your Minneapolis dentist for recommendations.
