It seems that everyone is always trying to find a way to get a brighter and whiter smile, and there are different methods available to achieve that. Some patients want the ease and affordability of over-the-counter products, like whitening strips or whitening toothpaste. However, many patients prefer the results offered by professional teeth whitening options. So, what are the differences between teeth whitening strips and professional whitening? Keep reading to learn all the details.
Teeth Whitening Strips Vs. Professional Whitening Services
If you are ready to get that million-dollar smile, you are likely considering your options when it comes to teeth whitening. Whitening strips and professional whitening are the two most popular options. Dive into all the differences below to learn which one might be right for you.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Generally, teeth whitening works by placing a whitening or bleaching agent onto the teeth for some period of time. Most of the time, this bleaching agent contains hydrogen peroxide to help remove the stains from your teeth. In some cases, the whitening solution might also contain a mild abrasive to help remove those stains. Whitening agents can sometimes weaken your teeth’s enamel, so your teeth might become sensitive after using a whitening product. This increased sensitivity usually goes away a few days after the treatment is completed.
The professional whitening systems used in your dentist’s office are usually much stronger than over-the-counter products. Thus, they usually provide better results and do not need to be performed as often. However, these solutions can sometimes increase sensitivity, so they might not be a good option for patients with pre-existing teeth sensitivity issues.
Whitening Strips Vs. Professional Whitening: Key Differences
While both options can give you a whiter smile, there are some big differences between these two types of treatments. Here are some of the most notable differences.
Results Achieved
One of the biggest differences you will find between whitening strips and a professional whitening service is the level of results achieved. Professional whitening will typically yield much better results than over-the-counter strips. The whitening agent used by your dentist is much stronger than the products you can buy on your own, and the difference in results is usually obvious. While you might be able to improve the whiteness of your smile by 3 to 6 shades with whitening strips, professional results can provide you with an improvement of 8 shades in just one visit.
Length Of Treatment
The amount of time it takes to complete treatment with these options also varies widely. Most whitening strips need to be worn for 30 minutes per day for 14 days total. This equates to 7 hours of total treatment time spaced out over a 2-week period. However, professional whitening can be completed in a single visit that usually lasts an hour or less. So, the treatment time required is significantly less for the professional treatment option.
Cost
Many people opt for the whitening strips simply due to the cost. It is no secret that professional whitening is more expensive than over-the-counter whitening strips. Whitening strips can be purchased for as little as $30, while professional whitening treatments can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000. Keep in mind that professional whitening does not need to be performed as often, but the cost is still higher.
Choosing The Right Treatment Option
So, how do you know which treatment option is best for you? The first thing you should do is talk to your dentist about the options available. They know your dental background and the condition of your teeth, and they can tell you which treatment would likely work best in your situation.
You should also consider other factors, like your budget and current level of teeth sensitivity. If you simply cannot afford professional whitening treatments, then whitening strips can still be a great option. Remember that most dental insurance plans will not cover whitening treatments, so you would have to pay for these services out of your own pocket. However, if you want the brightest smile possible and have the money for it, then professional whitening will help you achieve those results.
Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Appointment Today
Now is the time to get that bright white smile you have always dreamed of. Schedule an appointment today at Northern Virginia Orthodontics to learn about our professional whitening services and make your teeth shine. You will be stunned by the results, and you will want to show off your pearly whites to everyone you see. Contact our office today to book your treatment.