Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening
There are many Teeth Whitening options available today, and choosing the right one can feel confusing. From professional whitening to at-home whitening kits, each method offers different results. The best way to start is to talk with your child’s pediatric dentist in Plano or Dallas about safe and effective Teeth Whitening options. They can explain the differences, help you choose the right approach, and guide you toward a brighter, healthier smile.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
The first professional Teeth Whitening option is commonly called in-office whitening. This treatment is done in a dental office for safe and fast results. During your visit to our Plano or Dallas office, your child’s pediatric dentist will apply a professional whitening gel to the teeth. This in-office whitening visit usually takes about 90 minutes, and you can see a brighter smile right after the treatment.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
Tray Whitening
Tray bleaching is a type of professional teeth whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel available only through your pediatric dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your child's teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxy radicals help whiten stained teeth effectively. Unlike strips, this process whitens all the natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort. At-home professional tray whitening generally takes ten to 14 days, although you may notice visible results in as little as three to five days.
Paint-On Teeth Whiteners
There are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, and one type of readily accessible whitening product is commonly referred to as a paint-on teeth whitener. Paint-on whiteners can be purchased over the counter and are generally less expensive and less effective than whitening strips or professional pediatric teeth whitening options. Paint-on teeth whiteners consist of a gel applied to the teeth using a small brush. The whitening gel hardens into a thin film that coats the teeth and dissolves in the mouth. As with any teeth whitening regimen, it is always wise to consult with your pediatric dentist before use.
Teeth-Whitening Strips
Teeth whitening strips are thin, flexible plastic strips with a thin film of hydrogen peroxide on one side. Strip kits come in two types: strips for the upper teeth and strips for the lower teeth. The whitening agent is applied by placing the strips across your child's teeth and gently pressing to ensure full contact. Teeth whitening strips are typically worn for 30 minutes a day, twice a day. Treatment duration may vary depending on the level of staining.
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
The least expensive options are whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes. Designed to have “whitening” capabilities, toothpastes and mouthwashes work to remove surface stains using mild abrasives. However, unlike the materials used in professional teeth whitening procedures, these products do not lighten the actual color shade of the tooth. Whitening toothpastes affect surface stains and will mildly lighten your child's teeth.
If you would like to learn more about teeth whitening, please contact our pediatric dental office in Plano or Dallas to schedule an appointment.
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