Take-home teeth whitening trays are an alternative to an in-office teeth whitening procedure. Although not as effective as in-office whitening, take-home trays may be ideal for certain patients, particularly those who only have mild teeth stains and are not searching for a long-term solution to a brighter smile.
The best way for a patient to determine if take-home teeth whitening trays are ideal for them is to discuss all available teeth whitening options with a dentist. This review provides an overview of take-home teeth whitening to help patients prepare for their consultation and make an informed decision about the best way to brighten their smile.
Take-home teeth whitening trays are dentist-recommended trays that the dental staff sends home with the patient. They contain a concentration of either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, two ingredients that are known to help target and remove teeth stains. They are often far more effective than over-the-counter whitening kits. In addition, the dentist ensures that the patient’s teeth and gums are in ideal health before treatment, in order to help ensure that there are no adverse effects.
Some patients prefer take-home teeth whitening kits because they are less invasive than an in-office procedure. They are also far more effective compared to the average store-bought kit. However, the results from take-home teeth whitening kits only last for three to six months on average before additional treatment is needed. There is also an increased risk of user error, which could compromise the results.
The results from take-home teeth whitening trays do not last as long as those from in-office teeth whitening. Take-home teeth whitening kits produce results that can last around six months. In-office whitening can last for well beyond a year if the patient cares for their teeth properly after treatment. In-office teeth whitening can also produce better results, whitening teeth up to eight shades. That said, take-home teeth whitening trays are still effective for short-term results, particularly when compared to over-the-counter kits.
Take-home teeth whitening trays are typically recommended for patients with good oral health (no cavities) that are searching for short-term results. Some patients who have dental anxiety and prefer at-home treatment may find take-home teeth whitening trays to be ideal. However, patients who want long-term results may be better off with in-office teeth whitening. The best way to decide which choice is best is to discuss both options with a dentist during a consultation.
The information provided below is designed to help you decide if take-home teeth whitening trays from a dentist are right for you.
Although take-home teeth whitening trays are typically not as effective as in-office whitening procedures, they do normally produce the desired results for the patient. When compared with store-bought whitening kits, take-home trays provided by a licensed dentist are on average far more effective and safe.
It can take anywhere from less than a week to approximately three weeks to achieve the desired results from take-home whitening trays. The results vary for each person, although many patients report seeing noticeable improvements in the shade of their smile in as little as the first few days after starting treatment. Additionally, the results largely depend on how well the patient protects their smile throughout the course of treatment. It is important to limit the consumption of coffee, tea, and similar beverages and practice good oral hygiene.
The cost varies based on the specific type (and brand) of the whitening tray. In many cases, the cost is similar to what it would cost to whiten teeth in the office. In other instances, it may be a little more affordable. Although providing an exact price is difficult, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $600 for take-home teeth whitening trays.
Take-home teeth whitening trays are ideal for improving the shade of your natural teeth safely and in the comfort of your own home. Here at our dental practice, we offer take-home teeth whitening trays. If you would like to learn more, consult with our team via phone or message to schedule a visit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hardyoakfamilydentistry.com or call Hardy Oak Family Dentistry at (210) 787-1535 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
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