Which type of teeth whitening is best for me?

Here at Mexborough Dental surgery we offer two types of teeth whitening. Both are great options but they will give different results and suit different patients so this blog post explains both options to you so that you can decide which is best for you.

It is worth highlighting at this point that sometimes just whitening will not be enough to achieve the smile you are hoping for. A lot of the teeth we see on social media may have also had additional treatments such as composite bonding. In order to have whitening with us you need to have a check up first so why not have a chat with your dentist at the check up stage and they will let you know the best plan to achieve the results you are looking for.

Right onto your whitening options ...

Traditional whitening with trays from Boutique.

This is the type of whitening you will be most familiar with, you go to your appointment and have impressions made of your teeth. These are sent off to the lab and in your next appointment you will be given trays and gel.

There are two options when it comes to the gel and your dentist will advise you. For most people you will be given a product to sleep in but there is an option to use a product that can work in a few hours during the day. However the day time product can cause sensitivity.

Depending how white you want your teeth to go depends how many times you will need to repeat using the gel. Over time the colour will return so you may need to repeat the process, when it is time to do this you can just by replacement gel, you will still use the same trays.

If you have tried this before but had some sensitivity we can now offer a toothpaste that you can add to your whitening treatment when you have your impressions done. You can then use this for 2 weeks while waiting for your trays and continue to use while whitening to reduce sensitivity and prolong results.

PROS: Great results and you can build the whiteness over several applications. Really straightforward to apply. Best whitening results for people who want teeth more than 3 shades whiter.

CONS: Can cause some sensitivity. Have to use the trays with the gel which can feel a little uncomfortable. Takes longer to get started.

Colgate Luminous

This is a new product to the market that we are proud introduce to our patients. It is really straightforward to use and you can start using it straight away after your check up. It also does not cause as much sensitivity however it is best for people who want to take their teeth around 3 shades whiter.

You simply dry your teeth with tissue, apply the product to your dry teeth and wait 10 seconds for it to dry. Do this in 4 separate sections until all of the teeth are covered. Put the light in your mouth for 10 mins to helps start the process. Go to bed and brush off in the morning. You the repeat this to get your desired results, Colgate recommend 10 days.

In the same way as the traditional method you only buy the full kit once, after that first purchase you would thing just buy replacement pens as you can continue using the same light.

PROS: You can start using this straight away so ideal if you have an event coming up and don't have time to wait for the trays. No trays and gel to sleep in or to leave in. Less sensitivity.

CONS: You can't get as white results, you will get around 3 shades whiter.

So which should you pick?

You will need to decide which product suits you, your teeth, your lifestyle and the look that you are aiming for. If you would like some further advice or to book your session give us a call or send us an email.

Can't wait to see you at your next appointment