Teeth Whitening
Wylie, Texas
Stains from food, beverages, smoking, and thinning enamel can dim smiles. There are two main whitening approaches:
At-Home Treatments
- Whitening toothpastes and rinses use mild abrasives and bleaching agents, most often peroxides, to remove surface stains
- Whitening strips are flexible plastic strips coated with peroxide-based gel, typically used twice daily for 30 minutes
- Stock gel trays function as mouthguard-like appliances filled with whitening gel
Professional In-Office Treatments
Professional treatments are generally faster and more effective due to higher concentration of peroxide than those gels found in OTC products.
- Light-activated whitening uses halogen, LED, or UV lighting to activate whitening gel molecules
- Custom gel trays created by dentists provide precise application and require approximately two weeks of use
Deeper discoloration from trauma, medications, or existing dental work like bonding and crowns may require alternative cosmetic procedures for best results.
