Professional teeth whitening offers various benefits over at-home whitening treatments. Dentist-dispensed whitening agents provide better results without exposing the enamel to damage. If you opt for professional teeth whitening, you can choose between in-office treatment and take-home whitening trays. With in-office treatment, the procedure is carried out at the dentist's office. Conversely, take-home treatments are trays customized by your dentist for home use. Below are the factors to consider when comparing in-office teeth whitening and custom take-home whitening trays. 

Treatment Convenience

At-home whitening kits are popular because of the convenience they offer users. However, not all over-the-counter products are safe to use. If you want to enjoy the convenience of at-home teeth whitening without dealing with the risks of over-the-counter strips and toothpaste, go for take-home whitening trays.

Your dentist will custom-make the trays to fit your teeth perfectly. They use a lower concentration of the bleaching agent to remove stains and discoloration without causing enamel damage. Note that in-office teeth whitening is a one-day procedure, especially if your teeth aren't severely stained. Therefore, it is also a great option if you have a few hours to spare at the dentist's office.

Length of the Treatment

Take-home kits are convenient to use, but they require patience. Since dentists use a low concentration of bleaching agent, the treatment may take some time to work. Therefore, you have to wait one or two weeks to achieve the desired shade of white. This treatment option is ideal if you have mild discoloration and don't mind waiting a few days to see results.

In-office teeth whitening delivers results immediately after treatment. Dentists use higher concentrations of bleaching agents without harming the enamel. They can also use ultraviolet(UV) or LED lights to speed up the chemical reaction that removes stains and whitens the teeth. Therefore, if you need to whiten your teeth for an upcoming social or corporate function, opt for in-office treatment.

Risk of Dental Problems

Custom take-home whitening trays are safe and effective, but one must follow the usage instructions. If you apply the trays incorrectly or leave them too long, they can cause gum and enamel sensitivity. The discomfort can prompt you to stop treatment, which may interfere with the results. On the other hand, in-office teeth whitening has minimal complications. Your teeth may become a little sensitive after treatment, but the discomfort will ease within one or two days.

When used correctly, at-home whitening trays can get rid of stains and discoloration on the teeth and improve your smile. However, if you are worried about applying the trays correctly, you should opt for in-office teeth whitening. For further consultation, contact a dentist.