Teeth whitening is one of the most affordable cosmetic dental treatments available. The cost of teeth whitening in Montgomery, AL, will depend upon whether you opt for whitening (bleaching) performed at your dentist’s office or purchase a take-home kit from your dentist. In-office teeth whitening typically costs $400-$600, while take-home kits are often available for between $200-$300. Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of teeth whitening in the office vs. using a take-home kit.
Pros and Cons of In-Office Teeth Whitening
Before your dentist will approve you for in-office teeth whitening, they will confirm that you are free of gum disease. If you are approved for in-office teeth bleaching, you can expect the following benefits:
- Fast results (brighter teeth in about an hour)
- Gum, lip, and soft tissue protection from the whitening agent
- Teeth up to 8 shades whiter
- Improved confidence when you smile
- Affordable way to upgrade your smile without invasive procedures
- May be repeated as necessary
- Safe treatment
Cons:
- In-office teeth whitening is more expensive than take-home whitening kits
- May lead to tooth sensitivity
- Will not whiten teeth that have dental restorations, such as crowns or dental bridges
- Will not bleach gray teeth or teeth that are discolored due to certain medications
Pros and Cons of Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits from Your Dentist
Take-home whitening kits provided by your dentist use greater concentrations of peroxide than whitening strips, toothpaste, or other over-the-counter products. They also offer the following benefits.
- You may whiten your teeth at your convenience
- Brighter smile in a few weeks
- More affordable than in-office bleaching
- May be repeated as necessary
- Safe treatment
- Improved confidence when you smile
Cons:
- Takes longer for the full effects to be seen
- Can cause temporary tooth sensitivity
- Will not whiten teeth that have dental restorations such as crowns or dental bridges
- Will no bleach gray teeth or teeth that are discolored due to medications
- Risk of gum irritation if bleaching agent touches soft tissues
Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?
If you find that you’re self-conscious about yellowed teeth, teeth whitening may be the perfect solution. Teeth whitening may also have some inadvertent health benefits, as many people find that they take better care of their teeth after having them whitened.
Because a bright smile can make you feel more confident about showing your smile, you may take extra care to ensure you’re brushing a full two minutes twice a day and flossing daily. This leads to better oral health.
You may also find that you no longer want to indulge in excess coffee, decide to reduce your red wine consumption or stop smoking, all of which contribute to better overall health.
Book an Appointment for Teeth Whitening in Montgomery
SmileMakers is a top-reviewed cosmetic dental practice in Montgomery, AL. If you have dental restorations or stains that won’t respond to teeth whitening, our dentists will be happy to suggest other options, including porcelain veneers, cosmetic bonding, and microabrasion. To book an appointment, send us a message or call 334-277-5498.