Many people would like to have smiles that are brighter, whiter, and easier on the eyes. The thing is, there are plenty of different reasons that a smile may not look pristine and clean. It could be because of coffee, tea, red wine, or cola. Or it could be because of smoking cigarettes and cigars and chewing tobacco. Or perhaps the cause is medications, as some medications can cause some degree of tooth discoloration. Even aging will make its mark on your teeth given all of the wear and exposure that your smile will face over time.

Our Charleston, SC cosmetic dentist has helped many patients achieve the smile they have always wanted using in-office dental bleaching methods and kits. Right now, it is probably best to show how professional teeth whitening in the dentist’s office stacks up against at-home teeth whitening options that you can get over the counter.

The at-home teeth whitening options that are available to people over the counter vary. Some toothpastes and mouthwashes claim teeth whitening on their labels. These can be somewhat effective when used over a long period of time, but their effectiveness is miniscule for more substantial discoloration and staining. Teeth whitening strips and teeth whitening tray systems are also important to consider, and these can be quite effective for superficial stains and tooth discoloration.

None of these at-home treatments compares to the effectiveness of Charleston, SC teeth whitening performed in a dentist’s office. Your dentist will have access to much more powerful bleaching agents and solutions. This means that the degree of whitening is much stronger. In some cases, the level of whitening can be several shades.

If you would like additional information on teeth whitening treatments as well as other matters related to the health and appearance of your mouth, be sure to contact our Charleston, SC cosmetic dentistry office. We look forward to meeting with you during a cosmetic dentistry consultation.