Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 4 minutes
Teeth whitening can make a noticeable difference in your smile, but not all methods work the same way. Professional whitening provides predictable, lasting results under the care of your dentist, while store-bought kits are best for mild, short-term touch-ups.
Table of Contents
Professional Whitening Explained
Professional teeth whitening uses powerful but carefully controlled whitening gels that only dentists can apply or prescribe. These gels typically contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the active ingredients.
They penetrate below the enamel surface to break down deep stains caused by coffee, wine, or years of natural wear. Because the process is monitored by your dentist, the results are even, predictable, and safe for your gums and enamel.
Advantages of Professional Whitening
Professional whitening offers more than just brighter teeth—it provides a level of safety, precision, and lasting results that over-the-counter products cannot match.
- Effectively removes both surface and deep stains
- Delivers noticeably brighter results in less time
- Provides even color across all teeth without streaking or blotches
- Minimizes sensitivity and protects gums through controlled application
- Uses professional-strength ingredients for maximum whitening power
- Offers predictable results that can last up to three years with proper care
How Over-the-Counter Whitening Works
Store-bought whitening products use low concentrations of peroxide to make them safe for unsupervised use. Strips, gels, or LED kits can lighten surface stains but do little for discoloration beneath the enamel. Because one-size trays rarely fit well, the gel can miss spots or leak onto the gums, causing irritation or uneven results. The LED light is a gimmick, and doesn’t do the whitening; it’s the chemical (carbamide peroxide) on the tooth that whitens teeth.
Drawbacks of Over-the-Counter Whitening
While over-the-counter whitening kits are convenient, they come with several limitations that affect both the quality and longevity of results. Many users notice issues with consistency, sensitivity, and overall effectiveness.
- Results are mild and often fade within a few months
- Coverage can be inconsistent, leaving streaks or uneven shades
- Overuse may cause tooth sensitivity or weaken enamel
For occasional touch-ups, these kits can offer a temporary boost. For deeper, longer-lasting whitening, professional treatment is safer and far more effective.
Opalescence Custom Take-Home Whitening Trays
We offer Opalescence custom take-home whitening trays to give patients professional whitening results in a comfortable, convenient way. Each tray is custom-fitted to your teeth for even coverage and reduced irritation to the gums.
The Opalescence system uses carbamide peroxide to lift deep stains below the enamel surface, targeting discoloration from coffee, wine, and everyday wear. The gel also contains ingredients that help minimize sensitivity and protect your enamel throughout treatment.
Because the trays are designed specifically for your smile, the results are consistent, natural-looking, and long-lasting. With regular use as directed, most patients notice a brighter smile within one to two weeks.
| 💡 How to Maintain Your Whitening Results To keep your smile bright after whitening: Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sauces.Brush twice a day, floss daily, and schedule regular cleanings.Use a straw for dark drinks to reduce contact with your teeth.Avoid tobacco, which quickly causes new stains.Touch up with your Opalescence trays as recommended. |
Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening in Mesa, AZ
You do not have to settle for uneven or short-lived whitening results. With Opalescence custom trays from Power Road Dental Care, you can safely achieve a brighter, longer-lasting smile.
If you are in the Phoenix East Valley, book an appointment at our dental office in Mesa, AZ. Call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 South Power Road, Suite 102, Mesa, AZ.
FAQs
Do any home teeth whitening kits actually work?
Some over-the-counter whitening kits can lighten surface stains, but their results are mild and short-lived. Because they contain low-strength peroxide, they cannot reach deeper discoloration or provide the lasting brightness achieved with professional whitening. And you won’t whiten at the gumline with over the counter trays or strips. This requires custom fitting trays.
Why are my teeth still yellow after professional whitening?
Professional whitening removes most surface and deep stains, but the natural color of your enamel and dentin can still influence how white your teeth appear. Some shades of yellow come from genetics, enamel thickness, or medications, which whitening cannot completely change. Maintaining results with touch-up trays and regular cleanings can help keep your smile bright.
Is professional teeth whitening better than strips?
Yes. Professional whitening uses stronger, dentist-supervised formulas that reach deep stains and produce even, predictable results. Whitening strips contain lower levels of peroxide and often miss areas between teeth, leading to uneven color and shorter-lasting results.
Do whitening strips damage enamel?
When used as directed, most whitening strips are safe and do not permanently damage enamel. However, overuse or improper application can cause temporary sensitivity or irritation. Professional whitening is carefully monitored to protect your enamel while delivering brighter, longer-lasting results.
Where can I get professional teeth whitening near me?
Power Road Dental Care in Mesa, AZ offers Opalescence Take-Home Whitening Kits. To book a teeth whitening consultation, call (480) 664-1438 request an appointment online.