It’s common to be disappointed by whitening strips or toothpastes that promise dramatic results but barely make a difference. Part of helping you decide which approach is right for your smile goals involves explaining the difference between what to expect from OTC and professional teeth whitening.
Why Professional Whitening Is Better Than OTC
Professional whitening tends to produce brighter, longer-lasting results because it uses stronger whitening gel and is customized to your teeth.
- Over-the-counter whiteners vary by product, but many use lower-strength peroxide (often about 3–10% hydrogen peroxide).
- By comparison, in-office whitening commonly uses higher concentrations, around 20–40% hydrogen peroxide, with careful application and gum protection. Source: The Open Dentistry Journal.
With professional whitening, you’ll receive custom-fitted trays made using impressions of your teeth for more precise results and even coverage. Drugstore trays often fit poorly and can cause sensitivity or uneven results.
What Happens During Your Whitening Appointment
Here’s what to expect when you visit a cosmetic dentist in Bloomington, IN, for teeth whitening:
- First, your dentist will clean your teeth and examine them to ensure you're a good whitening candidate. Any existing decay or gum disease needs to be addressed first.
- Next, a protective barrier is applied to your gums and lips, and the whitening gel is carefully applied to your teeth. Depending on the product used, a special light may be used to accelerate the whitening process.
- The gel stays on your teeth for 15–20 minutes, then gets removed and reapplied. This cycle typically repeats 2–3 times during a single appointment.
Teeth Whitening Results You Can Expect
Professional teeth whitening in Bloomington, IN, typically takes 60–90 minutes for in-office treatments. Many patients see whitening results of 3–8 shades in just one visit, though results vary based on the severity of staining and your natural tooth color.
Ready to see what professional whitening can do for your smile? Call Ellettsville Dental Center at ( 812) 876-7330 to schedule an appointment and discover the difference professional treatment makes.