If you’ve ever dreamed of a brighter smile, chances are you’ve browsed the isles at your local pharmacy for over-the-counter (OTC) whitening solutions. From strips to toothpastes and gels, these products promise a dazzling transformation at a fraction of the cost of professional teeth whitening treatments. But do they actually work? Continue reading to separate fact from fiction and see if OTC whitening products are worth your time and money.
Fact: Some OTC Teeth Whitening Products Will Remove Stains
There are several whitening products on the market that can help remove surface stains and slightly whiten teeth. For example, whitening toothpastes often contain mild abrasives or polishing agents that gently scrub away discoloration.
Meanwhile, strips and gels use low concentrations of whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to bleach stains below the surface of your enamel. However, the results of these popular products are typically subtle or uneven, and may take weeks of consistent use to notice a difference!
Fiction: OTC Whitening Works as Well as Professional Treatments
While OTC products can lighten teeth, they can’t deliver the same results as professional treatments. Your dentist uses custom-fitted trays and professional-strength whitening agents that penetrate deeper into your enamel for a dramatic and even whitening effect.
Professional treatments are also much safer when compared to OTC brands. Because generic products use such low concentrations of whitening agents, they generally need multiple applications. Unfortunately, overuse often leads to weakened tooth enamel and sensitivity issues.
Fact: Professional Teeth Whitening Is More Cost-Effective
If you want significant whitening and fast results, professional treatments are the best investment. While OT products are less expensive, they can cause issues if misused and have no built-in way to check your results are on track.
With professional whitening, your dentist can customize the concentration of the gel, apply it safely, and monitor your progress. So, while professional treatments cost more upfront, they deliver longer-lasting results, saving you time and money in the long run!
Over-the-counter whitening products can work, offering mild improvements that can help you keep your smile bright in a pinch. However, they can’t replace the power and precision of professional treatments! So, if you want a noticeably whiter smile with less risk, schedule a consultation and talk to your dentist about the best options for you!
About the Author
At Sage Dental Care, Dr. Josh Branco and Dr. “Annie” Kim help our patients create brighter, healthier smiles with professional dental services like teeth whitening. Every option they provide is completely customized to deliver safe and dramatic results in a fraction of the time of generic products. Call (775) 677-0790 to schedule a teeth whitening consultation with our team or visit our website to see a full menu of services.