Why Teeth Whitening Isn’t Just a Luxury Anymore
A study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that 48% of all adults they surveyed said that a nice smile was the most memorable feature when they met a new person. Having a memorable, bright smile shouldn’t break the bank and luckily, it is becoming more and more affordable as new technologies and techniques are perfected.
In this article, we will break down the expense of each service as well as the pros and cons of each approach. Your dentist offers a few different options as well so we will break those down to better help with choosing which one is right for your budget.
Whitening Method #1: Whitening Toothpaste
While whitening toothpaste is often the most affordable method of over-the-counter teeth whitening, it is also the least effective and unless certified by the ADA, it can also contain too much abrasive material that could end up hurting your enamel instead of helping. Make sure to always look for the ADA logo on the toothpaste before you buy it. If you brush twice daily and have light surface stains, whitening toothpaste may help minorly reduce them over time, however, it is not suited (nor comparable to) the efficacy and speed of in-office whitening.
Cost: $6-15
Found: In store
Will see results in: Could take up to 3 weeks to see any results at all.
Whitening Method #2: Over-The-Counter Kits
There is a wide range of over-the-counter kits available that may include strips, trays, or brushes. With these, you put the gel or substance over your teeth for an extended period of time, depending on the application and how much you want to lighten your teeth. These kits will contain peroxide, which helps to reach stains deeper than the surface of your enamel.
As with any drugstore or grocery store dental hygiene product, make sure the ADA logo is on the item you are purchasing. It is crucially important that you make sure to read the directions very well and only use as instructed. At-home whitening can have very negative consequences if you do not adhere to the instructions listed. While the results from at-home whitening kits are more pronounced than that of whitening toothpaste, they cannot match the strength or the grade of peroxide used by a professional in a dentistry setting, nor can they guarantee professional application and aftercare.
Cost: Around $50-100 per kit
Found: In store
Will see results in: Around a week if used correctly every day
Whitening Method #3: Dentist Take-Home Kits
A lot of dentists offer take-home teeth whitening options in the form of a ready-made kit or custom-kit. While these may seem similar to the over-the-counter whitening products, they are actually more powerful and will work better than the kits you find at the store. Your dentist will properly train you how to use them and can give you a much-needed cleaning before the whitening as well.
Cost: $100-200
Found: Dentist Only
Will see results in: Around one week
Whitening Method #4: Zoom Whitening
Zoom Teeth Whitening is a form of laser treatment that lightens stained or discolored tooth enamel. This is a simple and non-invasive procedure that is done at your dentist office and can be done over a lunch break, it’s that fast. Zoom whitening uses a special lamp (Zoom light/laser) with a peroxide-based gel. From there each tooth gets whitened and you leave with a brighter smile in no time.
Cost: Around $500
Found: Dentist Only
Will see results: Immediately
Whitening Method #5: Boost Whitening
Boost Whitening is a relatively new treatment option available at your dentist for patients who have discoloration or staining from food, drink, or smoking. Boost uses a bleaching gel to remove the deepest stains from tooth enamel and even the dentin, which is behind the layer of enamel. The active ingredients work to lighten the teeth like Zoom but uses no light. The Boost system also utilizes potassium nitrate which helps to reduce sensitivity in your teeth and fluoride which helps reduce cavities.
Cost: Around $500
Found: Dentist Only
Will see results: Immediately
Professional teeth whitening is no longer the luxury it once was and for the best results and to ensure a safe experience, it is always recommended that you go with professional whitening with your board-certified dentist. Investing in your smile has never been easier or more affordable and you can bet your new smile will be remembered by everyone who meets you when you do it right.
Ready for a memorable, brighter smile? Mountain and Sea Dental has you covered!
Mountain and Sea Dental takes a holistic approach to dentistry for you and your smile. We recognize that every system in your body is connected and we aim to offer outstanding whole person oral care that takes your body and health into consideration.
We listen to your health goals and work with you to chart a holistic treatment that will take into account nutrition and overall dental health.
Please don’t settle for less than quality care. You and your smile are worth it — contact us today to book an appointment.