A bright, radiant smile is the ultimate confidence booster. For individuals in need of a helping hand, teeth whitening treatments are a popular solution for a pearly white grin. The available teeth whitening options that you'll encounter in the market fall into two primary categories: light-activated and chemical. Today, we’re delving into the details of each to help you make an informed decision!
Light-Activated Teeth Whitening
Light-activated teeth whitening, often performed professionally in a dental office, employs a specialized whitening gel. Once this gel is applied to your teeth, a high-intensity light or laser is used to activate the whitening agent, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The light accelerates a chemical reaction that breaks down stains and discoloration of the enamel. This process typically takes about an hour and generally yields immediately noticeable results after a single session.
Chemical Teeth Whitening
Chemical teeth whitening, or “at-home whitening,” involves using over-the-counter or dentist-prescribed whitening products. These products (like KöR® teeth whitening, for instance) contain a milder whitening agent than light-activated treatments. In chemical whitening, the whitening agent is applied via mouthpiece-like trays, whitening strips, or toothpaste.
Chemical whitening products are worn for specified stretches, usually a few hours or overnight, over a longer period of a few weeks or more. Unlike light-activated treatments, chemical teeth whitening is a gradual process that requires numerous applications over a span of a few weeks or more.
Light-Activated and Chemical Teeth Whitening: A Comparison
Light-activated whitening solutions are best suited for individuals seeking immediate, dramatic results. It is worth noting that while light-activated whitening is quick and usually immediately effective, it may cause temporary tooth sensitivity. Thus, light-activated requires monitoring by a dental professional and is the costlier of these options.
Chemical whitening, meanwhile, is best for individuals comfortable with a more gradual transformation and prefer the convenience of at-home treatment. The advantages of chemical whitening include affordability and customizability. However, as chemical whitening is managed by the individual at home, those undergoing these treatments must be patient and, most importantly, committed to consistent and proper application for optimal results.
Before starting any teeth whitening treatment, it's crucial to remember to consult with your dentist to determine the solution that’s best suited to your needs.
Laser Cavity Detection and Family Dentistry in Flowery Branch, GA
If you’re in the Flowery Branch, GA, area and would like more information about the teeth whitening solutions available to you and a helping hand in determining the most appropriate option for you, Dr. Reginald Booker is the dentist for you! Contact the team at Royal Lakes Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule a consultation!