When the summer sun is beating down on you and the humidity peaks, few things are as refreshing as an ice-cold glass of soda or sweet tea. While these delicious drinks can help you cool off in the unbearable heat, they can also quickly turn your teeth from a pearly white color to a deep yellow over time. When stubborn stains and unsightly discoloration surfaces, many patients purchase store-bought brightening kits or turn to professional teeth whitening in Fayetteville. But which treatment option is better? Read on to find out!
How Do Teeth Whitening Products Work?
To effectively brighten your smile, varying levels of hydrogen peroxide are used. When this whitening agent is placed firmly against your teeth, it begins to absorb into your tooth’s enamel. From there, your teeth become whiter and brighter! However, it is important to note that store-bought kits contain as low as 10% of the bleaching ingredient, while professional teeth whitening gels hold up to 40%. Therefore, you may need to use multiple store-bought products to get even close to the powerful effects of professional treatments.
Store-Bought vs. Professional: Which Is Better?
In addition to the powerful bleaching agents that are used in professional teeth whitening treatments, there are additional benefits of forgoing the retail kits. To start, your professional teeth whitening treatment will begin with a consultation with your dentist, which will ensure that your overall oral health is in good condition. From there, they will use custom trays to provide you with a flawless finish, unlike the store-bought products that rely on a one-size-fits-all, flexible strip. Lastly, the powerful tools that your dentist uses can lighten your smile up to eight shades in one visit! Conversely, the over-the-counter alternatives can take months to remove even the smallest stains.
What Can I Expect from Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments?
Fortunately, patients looking for professional-grade teeth whitening from the comfort of their own home can have it all! By speaking directly with your dentist about your dental concerns and desired results, you can ensure you get the bright, white smile you deserve in as little as one treatment. Plus, your dental team will guide you through the process step-by-step, so you always feel cared for and know where to turn if you have any questions before, during, or after your treatment.
If yellow stains and unpleasant discoloration are causing you to feel insecure, then it is time to speak with your dentist about opting for a professional teeth whitening treatment. That way, you can restore your bright, white smile before summer is over!
About the Author
After earning her undergraduate degree from East Carolina University, Dr. Angela C. Ruff completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Over the last three decades, she has completed advanced training at the VA Hospital in Portland, was a trustee of the North Carolina Dental Association, and opened her practice in Fayetteville! If you would like to speak with her about upgrading your smile with a teeth whitening treatment, visit her website or give her a call at 910-630-6199.