As at-home teeth whitening technology rapidly advances, there’s some lingering questions left as to what’s the difference between professional and over the counter?
To explain everything there is to know before you get your pearlies whitened, BD chatted with Opalescence dentist Dr Rouel Vergara:
What is the key difference between over the counter teeth whitening and professional teeth whitening?
There are two key differences between over the counter teeth whitening vs. professional teeth whitening:
- Predictability – A dentist-supervised teeth whitening system will always work effectively. Even though the results vary from one person to another, the dental healthcare provider has a better understanding of the potential outcome at the end of the teeth whitening treatment.
- Safety - Because the treatment is supervised by a well-trained and registered professional, you can guarantee that safety during the teeth whitening process is the priority.
How has at home teeth whitening changed?
Science and technology in dentistry have come a long way. This includes teeth whitening products. Nowadays there are so many options available in the market on how to whiten teeth. One of the recent advances in teeth whitening technology is Opalescence Go. Opalescence Go is a dentist-supervised take home teeth whitening system. This contains a very effective teeth whitening gel delivered in pre-filled disposable trays. Opalescence Go is so unique that it uses the body’s temperature to adapt and mould to any patient's smile. This means no more mouth impressions are needed to fabricate teeth whitening trays. This product provides comfort and convenience for the patient.
What do you wish more people knew when it comes to teeth whitening?
I wish more people are aware of the potential side effects of DIY teeth whitening. If done properly, dentist- supervised teeth whitening is considered to be one of the least invasive dental procedures. Although, teeth sensitivity can occur, this side effect is easily managed by a trained dental professional. So why hesitate? Most dentists provide this service and the benefits outweigh the cost of the investment.
What are some ingredients people should look out for and why?
The two most common active ingredients that are used for teeth whitening are Hydrogen Peroxide and Carbamide Peroxide. Even though they both come from the peroxide family, they are used differently in teeth whitening procedures. Only qualified and AHPRA registered dental health professionals are legally allowed to provide patients with these materials for the purpose of whitening teeth. Most of the over the counter products won't have these active ingredients, therefore rendering unpredictable results.
Do you have any tips for people to get optimum results?
As the saying goes, "Rome wasn't built in a day". The same goes for your teeth. Your pearlies will not get the optimum result in one session of in-chair teeth whitening (no matter what type of in-office system is used). It is very important to follow it up with a dentist-supervised take home whitening product. It is important to review the results of teeth whitening procedure 2-4 weeks after.
What's one dental hack?
Teeth whitening procedure is more effective after having your teeth professionally cleaned. So if you are thinking of having your pearlies whitened, make sure you time it on your next dental hygiene appointment.
