Teeth Whitening: In‑Office vs. At‑Home
Ready for a brighter smile? Compare professional whitening performed by your dentist to the convenience of at‑home kits.
How Professional Whitening Works
In‑office whitening uses high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, typically between 25% and 40%, applied under the supervision of a dentist. Before treatment, your teeth are cleaned and your gums protected with a rubber dam or resin barrier. The gel is applied in 15‑ to 30‑minute intervals; some systems use a light to accelerate the reaction, but studies show the light has little effect on the final shade. Results are visible immediately and can last several months if you avoid tobacco and staining foods.
The most common side effects of professional bleaching are temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. These usually resolve within a few days, but we may recommend a desensitising toothpaste before treatment to minimise discomfort.
Dentist‑Dispensed Take‑Home Kits
Custom take‑home kits use trays made from moulds of your teeth and gels containing around 10%—15% peroxide. You'll wear the trays for one hour a day or overnight for about two weeks. When used consistently, these kits can achieve results comparable to in‑office whitening with less sensitivity. Because they're supervised by your dentist, they're safer and more effective than drugstore products.
Over‑the‑Counter Whitening Products
Whitening strips, pens and boil‑and‑bite trays sold in stores are inexpensive and easy to obtain. However, they contain low levels of peroxide and may not fit snugly against your teeth, so it can take longer to see a difference and you may experience uneven results or gum irritation. Always read instructions carefully and have a dental check‑up before starting any whitening regimen.
Side Effects & Safety
Sensitivity and mild gum irritation are common with all bleaching methods but are usually temporary. Whitening isn't recommended for pregnant women or children under 16 and will not lighten crowns, veneers or fillings. If you experience persistent pain or discoloration, stop treatment and contact your dentist.
Choosing the Right Option
In‑office whitening is ideal if you want fast, dramatic results for a special event. Dentist‑supervised take‑home kits offer flexibility and lower cost while still delivering excellent results. Over‑the‑counter kits provide convenience and affordability but require patience and may not work for more stubborn stains. Our team will evaluate your goals, the type of stains you have and your dental health to recommend the best approach.
Discover our professional teeth whitening services.
At Spring Valley Dental Associates we evaluate whether your stains are external or internal and customise treatment accordingly. We may suggest a combination of in‑office and take‑home whitening for optimal brightness and recommend fluoride varnishes or desensitising agents to reduce sensitivity.
Written by Dr. Shokooh Aletaha, DDS — Cosmetic Dentist experienced in smile makeovers.