What are the treatment options for bleaching or whitening teeth?
The three primary whitening methods include: Over The Counter Whitening Strips The active bleaching ingredients (peroxide based) in white strip products are less concentrated and will be least effective for patients with “darker” shaded teeth. Repeated, frequent applications are needed for desired results. Whitening toothpastes have limited effectiveness since their exposure on the teeth is limited. However, both of these options are the least expensive. Bleaching Trays Custom bleaching trays fabricated by your dentist or over the counter trays can be used. The trays localize the bleaching gel around the teeth. The bleaching material dispensed and monitored by a dentist is more concentrated and effective. Patient compliance is required for treatment success. Trays are placed for one to two hours each day for 15 to 20 applications. The cost is higher than white strips but achieves an improved result. In-Office Bleaching Process This is the quickest, most effective and more expensive whi
