There are hundreds of over-the-counter teeth whitening products out there, you may have already tried a few and may have even had some success, however, professional teeth whitening systems are the safest and most effective option when it comes to whitening your teeth.
Before proceeding with any whitening treatment you must make sure you are dentally fit to do so. Whitening should only be carried out on patients who have healthy teeth and gums and never on patients with dental decay or gum disease. Whitening an unhealthy mouth can cause pain, discomfort, sensitivity and potentially damage your teeth or gums.
Over the counter/online teeth whitening products can only legally contain 0.1% hydrogen peroxide. Professional whitening kits contain up to 16% making them much more effective than any that are brought over-the-counter.
Over the counter teeth whitening products are cheaper than professional teeth whitening in the short term, however the results from professional whitening will last much longer, the leftover gel can be kept in the fridge until it expires and used for top-up sessions in the future years. Extra tubes of gel can be purchased from our surgery for just £50. Long-term professional whitening may actually work out more cost-effective.
Professional teeth whitening trays are custom-made, they are comfortable, sleek and of good quality. Over-the-counter trays are bulky, and often uncomfortable. Due to the poor fit, they are likely to cause the teeth whitening solution to leak out over the top of the trays and irritate the gums.
One thing to be aware of when whitening your teeth is that unfortunately whitening gel is unable to change the shade of dental crowns, veneers (including composite veneers) and any composite fillings. If you are considering any cosmetic dental treatments or smile makeovers we always suggest any planned whitening treatment is carried out beforehand.
When it comes to whitening your teeth we always recommend leaving it to the professionals, over-the-counter products are not as safe or as effective and when it comes to your teeth, the investment is worth it.
If you would like any more information on Teeth Whitening or any of our other cosmetic dental treatments you contact us -
26 Haywards Rd
Haywards Heath
West Sussex
RH16 4HT
01444 440123
hh@s3dental.co.uk
72 Well Hall Road
Eltham
London
SE9 6SL
0208 850 9836
Eltham@s3dental.co.uk
3 Manor Road North
Hinchley Wood
Esher
Surrey
KT10 0AA
0208 398 6322
HW@s3dental.co.uk