A brighter and whiter smile can boost self confidence and is scientifically linked to an increased probability of job promotions, more friends, and happiness. If you’re looking for teeth whitening in Irvine or greater Orange County, The Tooth Co. understands how important it is to feel confident about your smile. In this article, our cosmetic dentist, Conor Perrin, explores the various teeth whitening options available at our Irvine dental office and explains why custom at-home trays provided by your dentist might be the best choice for achieving the brilliant smile you’ve always wanted.
The Different Types of Teeth Whitening
Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening
For those looking for immediate results, professional in-office teeth whitening is a popular option. This procedure is performed by a dental professional, ensuring that you receive safe and effective treatment. Using high-concentration bleaching gels that are activated by special lights or lasers, this method can lighten your teeth several shades in just one visit. Brands like Zoom! and BriteSmile are among the top choices in the industry for in-office treatments. While this option offers quick results, it can be more expensive than other methods and might cause excessive sensitivity for some patients. It can also give a false sense of whitening as your teeth are highly dehydrated during this procedure due to your mouth being open for so long, leading them to appear whiter when you leave the dental office than they actually are.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products
If you prefer to whiten your teeth at your own pace, over-the-counter (OTC) products may be suitable. These include whitening strips, toothpastes, and gels. These products are generally less expensive than professional treatments and can be used in the convenience of your home. However, they often contain lower concentrations of whitening agents compared to professional products, which means it may take longer to see results. Additionally, the one-size-fits-all trays and strips may not provide uniform whitening or could cause irritation to gums if not applied carefully. They also do not adapt properly to the areas where teeth touch, leading to a yellower appearance in these connecting areas.
Whitening Toothpaste and Rinses
For a gradual improvement in your smile’s brightness, whitening toothpastes and rinses are easy to incorporate into your daily routine. These products contain mild abrasives and chemicals that help remove surface stains. While they are great for maintaining professionally whitened teeth or slightly improving the natural whiteness of your teeth, they are less effective on deep, older stains.
Our Expert Recommendation:
Custom At-Home Whitening Trays
Among the most effective at-home whitening methods are custom-fitted trays made by your dentist. You can learn more about our professional teeth whitening services here. Here’s why they often come highly recommended:
Personalized Treatment
Custom whitening trays are crafted specifically for your teeth, based on molds or a scan taken our Irvine dental office. This personalized fit ensures that the whitening agent is evenly distributed across all your teeth, reducing the risk of uneven whitening and minimizing the contact of the bleaching agent with your gums, which can lead to irritation.
Professional Strength
The whitening gel used in these custom trays is typically stronger than what is found in OTC kits, which means you can achieve more noticeable results in a shorter amount of time. Moreover, your dentist will provide a professional assessment to determine the appropriate strength and duration of treatment based on your specific needs and oral health status.
Safety and Support
Using custom trays under the guidance of a dental professional enhances safety. Your dentist will instruct you on how to apply the gel properly and how often to use your trays, as well as monitor your progress throughout the treatment. This personalized attention helps ensure that you achieve the best results without compromising the health of your teeth and gums. This will also help prevent increased sensitivity!
Cost-Effective
While the initial investment in custom trays can be higher than some other at-home options, the trays are reusable for future whitening treatments. You only need to purchase additional whitening gel from your dentist, which makes this option more economical in the long run.
Why Choose Custom At-Home Trays from The Tooth Co.?
At The Tooth Co., your dental health is our top priority. We provide high-quality, custom-fitted whitening trays that are designed to meet your individual needs and deliver superior results. By choosing our custom trays, you benefit from a safe, effective, and convenient way to enhance your smile at your own pace, all while being supported by the expertise of our skilled dental team.
We invite you to visit us at our luxurious and modern dental office in Irvine, CA, where we combine advanced dental technology with a warm, welcoming environment to provide you with the best dental care experience possible. Contact us today to learn more about our teeth whitening services and how we can help you achieve the radiant smile you deserve.
