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See the Light and Learn About How to Whiten Teeth

At-Home and Professional Teeth Whitening - The Basics

March 15, 2015 By Dental One Associates of Maryland

See the Light and Learn About How to Whiten Teeth

Are you wondering how to whiten teeth, as well as the time, protection, and price of the process? Once you’re ready for a brighter smile, the main choice is between professional teeth whitening or one of numerous at-home options. They are very different approaches and provide different advantages, so see which is right for you.

The Cost for At-Home vs. Professional Teeth Whitening

Be aware that at-home options cost less because they give you lesser results, compared to professional teeth whitening, which may cost a little more but will deliver a lot more strength and safety.

Stronger Bleaching Power

The level of whiteness you achieve is based on the power of the particular bleaching agent. Professional teeth whitening uses advanced whitening products with hydrogen peroxide levels from 15% to 43%. Compare this to at-home whitening options that don’t contain the strength of hydrogen peroxide, but instead include a lower-strength bleaching agent that is only equivalent to around 3% hydrogen peroxide.

Customized Mouthpiece Trays

The mouthpiece tray is crucial in the teeth whitening process because a better fit means better function. In professional teeth whitening, trays are customized to your teeth to increase the contact of the bleaching agent for maximum effectiveness and reduce the risk of it harming the gums. They are also constantly checked for fit and comfort. Since at-home teeth whitening products take a one-size-fits-all approach, a badly fitting tray can lower the overall bleaching coverage and raise the risk of irritation.

Better Protection for Maximum Safety

If you’re wondering how to whiten teeth in the safest possible way, then professional teeth whitening is the way you want to whiten. See, dentists take many safety measures to protect your dental and personal health. Along with first performing oral exams to see if bleaching is safe for you, dentists customize your treatment trays to ensure proper fit, as well as continually check for irritation and constantly monitor whitening progress. Yet with at-home products, you’re at-your-own-risk.

Unfortunately, teeth whitening won’t last forever. The bright, beautiful smile seen moments after the whitening is complete can begin to fade in just weeks from exposure to dark foods and beverages. Yet avoiding these staining substances can allow you to wait for over a year until it's time for another treatment.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Maryland, call Dental One Associates of Maryland today at or make an appointment.

Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Maryland. With 12 affiliated practices throughout Maryland, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Maryland, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Maryland.

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