In-Office Teeth Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening

As you age, your teeth naturally lose their luster. Stains from certain foods and drinks, tobacco use, medications, and poor oral hygiene add up over the years. Your genetics also play a role in how your teeth change color over the years.

Are you embarrassed about your yellowing teeth? Rest assured that you have options for restoring your pearly whites so you can smile with confidence again. Just be aware that not all teeth whitening options are created equal. Should you choose in-office GLO Science Professional Teeth Whitening or over-the-counter whitening strips, rinses, and toothpaste? Compare the characteristics of each option to help you decide.

Speed & Effectiveness

Over-the-counter whitening strips are minimally effective because they come with reduced concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. It may take weeks to whiten your teeth by only a shade or two. Rinses and toothpaste marketed as “whitening” products are even less effective because they don’t remain in contact with your teeth long enough. Expect them to maintain your current shade, not noticeably brighten your smile.

In contrast, the GLO approach uses LED light and heat to accelerate the process, whitening your teeth by several shades in about 40 minutes. You can complete the initial session in-office and maintain your look with an easy-to-use take-home kit.

Comfort Level

Whitening strips available over-the-counter are notorious for causing tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Even mild whitening toothpaste and rinses can cause discomfort, especially if you have untreated cavities, broken fillings, or gum disease.

GLO teeth whitening is different. The specialized gel used with this type of in-office whitening is free of alcohol and carbamide peroxide, which strip tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. This means your teeth experience no adverse effects from GLO whitening, and you can experience little to no tooth sensitivity. Also, your dentist will recommend other restoration treatments besides whitening if you have a condition that could make bleaching your teeth unsafe or uncomfortable.

Safety

Users apply over-the-counter whitening products without a dentist’s supervision. This makes it possible to misread the instructions or intentionally misuse the products in an effort to boost their effectiveness. Unfortunately, this is a safety concern.

On the other hand, in-office whitening is constantly monitored by a professional. So even though the concentration of the bleaching agent is higher, the process is safer than whitening your teeth at home. The increased strength also makes in-office bleaching much more effective.

In-Office Teeth Whitening in Brooklyn, NY

If you’re ready to stop hiding your teeth when you smile, don’t waste your time on over-the-counter whitening strips, rinses, and toothpaste that cause uncomfortable sensitivity and offer minimal results. Instead, choose in-office GLO teeth whitening offered at Beyond Dentistry Laser Center. Our dental team will help you gain the confidence to grin in public like never before.

We can’t wait to help you look and feel your best! To ask questions about our teeth whitening services, or to schedule a consultation at our Brooklyn dentist office, please call us at 718-436-0202 or contact us online.