Nothing makes a first impression like a bright, radiant smile. A glistening grin can also help you better express your true self to the world. However, there are many factors working against your smile’s ideal whiteness. Tooth discoloration is one of the most common issues in cosmetic dentistry because it has so many causes. These include:
- Tobacco use
- Drinking beverages with dark coloring
- Eating fruits with dark coloring
- Genetics
- Certain medications
- Various medical conditions
If your teeth have become discolored, there is no need to be ashamed. As you can see, it is difficult to avoid. However, it is perfectly reasonable to aspire to a brighter, whiter smile! The progress of dental technology has made teeth whitening more accessible than ever before. However, it is important to be certain you are taking the best approach, both in terms of cost and effectiveness. Should you visit a dentist for your whitening treatment or use an over-the-counter kit, instead? Below are brief breakdowns of both options so that you can make the most informed decision.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
In theory, at-home whitening products are a great option as they allow you to skip the dentist’s chair and administer the treatment in the comfort of your own home. It is important to note, however, that most at-home kits require a high degree of discipline. If you are inconsistent about following the directions, you may prolong the treatment or even reduce its effectiveness. What’s more, at-home options that entail a daily procedure could wind up costing you more time than a dental appointment would have. Nevertheless, at-home options from reputable brands have been shown to whiten teeth if used as directed.
Professional Whitening
A professional in-office whitening treatment can brighten your smile by several shades in just one visit. This is because a trained dentist has access to materials and technology that stand to whiten teeth much faster and more effectively than over-the-counter whitening kits. Going into the office for an appointment may seem like a bit of a commitment at first, but many patients find that this route saves them time and eliminates a potential daily hassle. Receiving a whitening treatment from a professional dentist will also ensure that your results are consistent and pristine across all of your teeth, which may be difficult to manage when applying strips or gels yourself at home.
If you simply do not have the time to schedule a full professional whitening appointment, you may be interested to know that some dentists offer take-home whitening kits that are much more powerful than the average over-the-counter option. They provide the best of both worlds by aligning with your schedule while using professional-grade material.
Are you looking for teeth whitening in Broomfield? Petersen Family Dentistry offers both professional in-office whitening and take-home kits. Call us today at (720) 308–9798 or contact us online .
