Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Drug Store Kits: What’s the Difference?

Having a Hollywood smile — that glistening, pearly white you see in movies and magazines — is easily within reach these days. Unlike more drastic procedures like nose jobs and chin tucks, teeth whitening is a simpler option that more people are considering to improve their smiles profoundly.

Also, teeth whitening is big business. Experts expect the global tooth-whitening industry to reach $10.6 billion by 2030.

You’ve probably seen the at-home tooth-whitening kits in pharmacies and discount stores. While these do-it-yourself (DIY) products can provide some benefit, they can’t compare to what professional teeth whitening can achieve. Here are a few reasons a teeth whitening treatment at our established Blue Ash family dental clinic is worlds beyond a DIY kit.

The Pre-Whitening Examination

Before you receive professional teeth whitening, a cosmetic dentist will schedule a thorough checkup and professional cleaning. This is done to address any potential cavities, plaque buildup, or tartar that can disrupt the whitening process. Your dentist can also examine the surface of your teeth because cracks, tooth decay, or gum disease might be a sign that whitening isn’t your best option.

By doing the treatment yourself, you don’t properly prepare your teeth for optimal results. This lack of professional oversight can not only affect how white your teeth can get but also cause oral health problems if your teeth aren’t good candidates for the treatment.

Better Results

The simple fact is that a DIY drugstore approach cannot deliver the power of a professional teeth whitening. You can follow the kit’s directions to the letter, or even try it multiple times, but whitening won’t be as thorough or deep. Any meaningful results will take a long time and may not be effective.

Consistent Color

At-home kits don’t always ensure consistent whitening across your entire smile. In contrast, your local family dental practitioner ensures the whitening agent blends in with the overall color of your teeth. Professional whitening delivers an improved smile that’s also natural in color without unsightly blemishes or stains.

Care from a Professional

Because you’re probably not a dentist, you can’t expect to deliver as consistent and thorough a job as a trained dental professional. At Beckham Square Family Dental, we regularly perform these treatments, and we’ve received training in this and other cosmetic procedures.

Granted, professional teeth whitening by a trained cosmetic dentist will cost a bit more. But consider what you are getting for your money. It’s like the difference between cutting your own hair and going to a salon. You might be able to walk away unscathed if you’re careful, but don’t count on the professional-grade results or a treatment that’s safe for your teeth.

Knowing Your Limits

Despite the benefits of professional teeth whitening, it has its limits. It’s possible to whiten the teeth so much that you end up damaging the enamel. If you’re using your own kit, you might cross the line and permanently damage your teeth, especially if you do multiple treatments in pursuit of better results.

A cosmetic dentist at Beckham Square Family Dental will not only be able to deliver more effective treatment, but they’ll also know how much is enough without causing damage. For questions about professional whitening or to schedule your consultation, you can complete our online contact form today. We’d love to help you achieve a brighter, healthier smile!