Posted: August 15, 2024
If you're dissatisfied with the color of your teeth-whether they're dark, dingy-looking, stained, or yellowing-you're not alone. Many people turn to drugstore teeth whitening kits to brighten their smile. They're cheap, easy to find, and promise great things - but they seem always to let you down.
Have you ever questioned why these over-the-counter options often fail to deliver? Dr. Scott Greenhalgh, a trusted expert in professional teeth whitening in Lakewood, CO, understands why you're disappointed with over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening. Below, we explain why those kits don't work well and why professional teeth whitening is the superior choice.
Weak Bleaching Gels
One of the main reasons drugstore teeth whitening kits fall short is the strength of the bleaching gel. The OTC products in stores contain far weaker bleaching agents than those we use in our dental office. This lower concentration means that, at best, you might see minimal improvement - and it could take weeks or even months to notice a difference. With professional-grade whitening, the results are more dramatic and much quicker. For example, one chairside (in-office) whitening appointment with Dr. Greenhalgh could whiten your teeth 8-10 shades.
Poor Whitening Tray Fit
Another significant issue with drugstore whitening kits is the generic, one-size-fits-all trays. Although some OTC kits say they're customizable, there's a limit to how much customization you can do with a basic plastic tray and hot water. Those trays rarely fit snugly against your teeth, which means they don't distribute whitening gel evenly. Often, gel squeezes out the sizes and between your teeth. This causes uneven whitening effects.
With our chairside whitening system, Dr. Greenhalgh uses precise application techniques to ensure the whitening product goes exactly where it's needed for maximum results. With our take-home whitening systems, Dr. Greenhalgh creates custom-made trays that fit your mouth perfectly, ensuring the whitening gel spreads evenly over your teeth.
Lack of Professional Supervision
You're on your own when you use an over-the-counter whitening kit. If you use it incorrectly, you could end up with problems beyond just a lack of results-for example, damage to your tooth enamel or gums. When you whiten with us, you can put those worries to rest.
Dr. Greenhalgh closely monitors your teeth whitening process, whether in the office or your home. Using custom-made products specifically prescribed for you can avoid complications like gum irritation and enamel damage while getting the gorgeous white smile you want.
Professional Chairside and Home Whitening in Lakewood, CO
For a brighter, more confident smile, consider professional whitening treatments with Dr. Greenhalgh. Check out some of our amazing patient results in our smile gallery here, and then request your consultation online or call us at 303-988-9060 to get started on your new, dazzling smile.
