A white, shiny smile can improve your confidence and make a positive first impression. With so many whitening products on the market, over-the-counter and online, however, it can be difficult to decide which product is right for you. Should you go for an at-home treatment or visit a professional? If you are thinking of teeth whitening in Calgary, this blog will show you the huge differences between doing it yourself versus going to the dental hygienist.
What is at-home teeth whitening?
At-home whitening refers to any procedure that you can perform on yourself utilizing products available in a store or online. The products include toothpastes, gels, strips, trays, and LED light kits. Crest White Strips are among the most popular products. They are easy to use, inexpensive, and can produce desired outcomes within a couple of days.
But although easy, home products may not always provide the same whitening power as in-office treatments. They are usually less concentrated bleaching agents and won’t erase deep stains. Individuals also overuse these products, leading to sensitivity of teeth or mottled whitening.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional whitening is done by a dental hygienist in a clinic setting. The process usually involves stronger whitening agents and special tools like heat or light to speed up the results. A common professional method is laser whitening, which can show results in just one session.
If you’ve ever asked, “Is it better to get your teeth professionally whitened?”, the answer depends on your needs. Professional treatments are faster, more effective, and safer. You also get guidance from a trained dental professional who checks your teeth first to make sure whitening is safe for you.
Crest White Strips vs Professional Whitening: Which Works Best?
Let’s compare Crest White Strips vs professional whitening treatments. Crest White Strips are affordable and easy to use at home. They’re good for people who want to brighten their teeth a little and don’t have deep stains.
Professional whitening, on the other hand, is much more powerful. It gives faster and longer-lasting results. While Crest strips might take weeks, professional treatments can show a big change in just one or two sessions. If you have a special event coming up or want a dramatic improvement, professional whitening is usually the better option.
How Long Do the Results Last?
One major factor people think about is how long the results will last. At-home whitening methods may only last a few months, especially if you drink coffee, tea, or wine often. You may need to repeat the process many times a year to keep your teeth white.
With professional whitening, results can last a lot longer—up to a year or more with good care. The stronger bleach and expert handling mean the stains are removed deeper, giving a more lasting effect. A dental hygienist in Calgary can also give you tips on how to keep your smile bright after treatment.
Which Option Is Safer?
Safety is very important when it comes to your teeth and gums. At-home products can sometimes cause side effects like gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, or uneven colour. These issues usually happen when people don’t follow the directions or use the products too often.
Professional whitening is done under careful supervision, which means less risk of damage. Dental hygienists use high-quality products and make sure the gums are protected during treatment. If you have fillings, crowns, or gum problems, it’s safer to choose whitening from a dental hygienist clinic.
Is Whitening Right for Everyone?
Not everyone is a good candidate for whitening, especially people with gum disease, cavities, or certain types of stains. Before trying any method, it’s a good idea to talk to a dental hygienist clinic. They can examine your teeth and let you know if whitening will work for you or if you need to treat other problems first.
Want a Brighter Smile? Visit Serenity Smiles Today!
Whether you’re thinking about at-home options or looking for professional results, the best way to make an informed choice is to speak with a dental expert. At Serenity Smiles, our friendly and skilled team is ready to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Book an appointment with us today and find out how easy and safe it can be to get whiter teeth. Let us help you smile brighter—your perfect smile is just a visit away!
