There are so many over-the-counter whitening solutions to choose from that we couldn’t possibly include them all in one blog without overwhelming you with options, prices, pros and cons. In this post, we’ll talk about the two most popular of the over-the-counter whitening solutions…
Whitening Strips:
If you don’t already know, whitening strips are thin, flexible, gel-coated strips that are made to conform to and stick to your teeth. For best results, you’re supposed to keep them on for up to 30 minutes everyday, twice a day, for two weeks. If you follow that regime to the T, your smile has the very high-possibility to be up to three shades lighter!
With these strips, how long the results last all depends on how often you drink wine and coffee, and whether or not you smoke.
There are more powerful whitening strips though…
These strips require you to wear them every day for two hours for two weeks. The results from these strips have been known to last for up to three months.
Whitening strips run the gamut of about $45, per kit. That means that though you may be paying for less than professional procedures up front, if you hope to maintain a white, bright smile, you’ll pay a lot more in the long run. This is something you need to think about when springing for the strips.
Furthermore, whitening strips are uncomfortable for those with sensitivity and only serve to increase sensitivity over time.
Over-the-Counter Trays:
Over-the-counter trays are one-size fits all, which, though uncomfortable, means a far lower price than dentist-administered trays at just $42.99. Surprisingly, when worn for 45 minutes each day for one week, over-the-counter trays DO produce great results, according to GHRI (Good Housekeeping Research Institute) testers. It’s unknown though for how long these results last.
Again, however, you get what you pay for; users of these trays complain about the mess and discomfort, claiming the trays leak and that they cause severe gum irritation.
For even more over-the-counter whitening solutions, visit https://dentalpassions.com/more-teeth-whitening-solutions/
Or, to learn more about our in-office solutions if you haven’t already, visit https://dentalpassions.com/tooth-whitening-solutions-by-cost/
