Comparing Take Home Trays vs. In Office Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening trays are effective and convenient options for achieving a brighter smile. In-office whitening is efficient in making teeth whiter. Both procedures bring results. Understanding them well can help you decide which treatment is for you. If you want to know more about in-office and take-home teeth whitening trays, here are the details.

How one compares to the other

It is not so much whether take-home teeth whitening trays or in-office whitening is better. It is just different. When someone visits a dental clinic to get their teeth whitened, the dentist goes through specific steps. First, that individual examines the patient’s mouth and takes X-rays. Then the dentist gathers information about the patient’s medical history. All of that combined makes it easier to understand why someone has yellowed or stained teeth.

When it comes to teeth whitening, the information gathered by the dentist matters. For instance, during the examination, a dentist might find that someone has intrinsic discoloration. That means the discoloration is inside the tooth rather than on the surface. In a situation like this, neither in-office nor take-home teeth whitening trays work well. On the other hand, teeth with surface yellowing and staining respond favorably.

Whether performed in a dental clinic or when someone uses a tray at home, both teeth whitening options do a good job. After all, a dentist customizes a patient’s take-home tray just like the one used in the clinic. Also, a dentist chooses the appropriate chemical formula, the same for in-office and at-home treatment. So, in many ways, these options are alike.

For both of these, a dentist will provide the patient with specific information and instructions. Not only does that increase the chance of achieving the whitest white, but it also eliminates risks. So, as long as someone does what they need to do, take-home teeth whitening trays are not a bad idea. Then again, some people prefer to have dental procedures performed in-office.

Differences in these teeth whitening options

The biggest difference between the two teeth whitening options is the location. As implied, an in-office procedure consists of visiting a dental clinic. A take-home tray is just that. It is a customized tray filled with the teeth whitening formula that a person uses at home. While both are viable choices, it all comes down to the patient’s preference.

Some patients need to stay home during the day to watch after young children, while others work full-time. For such patients, a trip to the dentist is not always feasible. In this case, the individual will only have to make one appointment to get the trays. Then, they can complete the teeth whitening process in the comfort of their house.

Benefits of take-home teeth whitening trays

These trays come from the dentist. The kit is not like over-the-counter products. Take-home trays are effective and convenient. An individual can use them at home. It can work during waking or sleeping hours.

Using these trays allows the patient to have regular access to the dentist. Guidance is always available whenever the patient needs it. The dentist will examine the patient’s dental health before the treatment starts. Routine dental checks are necessary to make sure the patient receives treatments for any side effects.

Take-home trays are custom-fit. Each one fits around the patient’s teeth without any excess space. This keeps the whitening gel around the teeth. Having the gel inside the trays ensures the gum tissue does not develop irritation.

Benefits of in-office teeth whitening

The dentist will handle the components of teeth whitening. The patient will go through dental exams. A thorough dental health evaluation will help the dentist see if the individual has restorations or dental issues. The dentist will then figure out what concentration of bleach will be appropriate for the patient. Protecting the soft tissues of the mouth is a priority as well.

Going to the clinic for teeth whitening gives quick results. The procedure lasts for less than an hour. Each exposure to the whitening gel lasts for about 15 minutes. The dentist often matches the level of whiteness to the whites of the patient’s eyes. The procedure can remove surface stains like discoloration from red wine, dark soda, and coffee.

It is time for a new smile with teeth whitening trays

When it comes to teeth whitening, you now have two possibilities. You can schedule an appointment for an in-office procedure. You can also choose to whiten your teeth at home with teeth whitening trays. Talking to your dentist can determine which option is right for you. Either method will allow you to enjoy a whiter and brighter smile.

Are you considering getting teeth whitening trays in the McLean area? Get more information at https://www.oaktreefamilydental.com.

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