In-Office vs. Take Home Whitening

There are two main types of tooth whitening systems offered in dental offices, in-office whitening and take home whitening. In-office teeth whitening uses a blue light to dehydrate the teeth and does not have any long term results. The more effective tooth whitening system is the take home version that uses custom molded trays containing a whitening gel. Our dentist in West Columbia recommends and has excellent long term results using the take home system.

Take Home Whitening Trays

At your whitening appointment, Columbia Smile Center’s staff will take impressions of your mouth. The staff will then fabricate custom fitted trays that will fit perfectly to your teeth. A whitening gel containing a safe from of peroxide called carbamide peroxide will be provided for you to place in your trays at home. The trays are worn for 1-2 hours a day for 2-4 weeks. During this time, the carbamide peroxide will remove external and internal stains from the enamel of your teeth, resulting in a very attractive, white smile.

Advantages of Take Home Whitening Trays

One of the best advantages to take home whitening is that the trays can be reused multiple times to touch up any stains that may develop over time from coffee, tea, etc. Additionally, the trays are used at your own convenience and save you a trip to the dentist’s office as well as have less sensitivity than the in-office whitening.

Does Whitening Hurt My Teeth?

Current research indicates that take home teeth whitening systems do not harm teeth or tooth structure. The main side effects of teeth whitening include short-term tooth sensitivity and sometimes gum irritation.