Gel Tooth Whitening - How to Get the Best Results at the Lowest Cost

By Julian Carl

Gel tooth whitening is a method used to restore a tooth's surface color by the removal of dirt and debris. We start out with sparkly white teeth because of the tooth enamel that protects teeth from the effects of chewing, gnashing, trauma, and acid attacks caused by sugar. Over time the enamel becomes worn which allows the yellowish color of the tooth's core material to show. Bleaching also known as gel whitening can be an effective method to combat this problem.

There are three different types of gel whitening methods you can choose from. One is to have gel tooth whitening done at your dentist's office so you can achieve the best results. Being a trained professional, your dentist can give you the best results in the shortest amount of time, and in a way that is safe. This in-office whitening method is one of the quickest and safest methods you can use to brighten the color of your teeth. Your dentist is able to whiten your teeth while at the same time controlling gum exposure and tooth sensitivity.

The in-office gel tooth whitening procedure begins with a thorough dental examination and cleaning to make sure your teeth are healthy and that you have no problems that would interfere with gel whitening. The dentist will then apply a rubber dam to your gums so they are protected during the procedure. Next comes the application of a thick peroxide gel. The gel is left in place for up to 20 minutes. Then it is washed off and your teeth are examined for results. If they need more whitening, the procedure is repeated up to a maximum peroxide contact time of one hour.

Each time the gel is washed off, your teeth will be examined to see how they are progressing and to determine which ones need another application of gel. If your teeth have not whitened to the degree that you want, your dentist may recommend that you return at a later time for another gel tooth whitening treatment as the maximum limit for the gel application is one hour per session.

Although gel tooth whitening is recommended done in your dentist's office there are drawbacks to consider. In-office whitening is expensive and can cost on average up to $650. Also, depending upon certain factors such as heredity, age, and type of stain, results can be less than predictable. This means that you may not achieve your desired results and end up spending more to continue treatment. In-office whitening is also not permanent and your dentist may recommend home maintenance.

If you don't want to spend as much money by going to your dentist they can dispense a take-home kit. The cost of the take-home kit ranges from $100 to $400. Many dentists agree that dentist-dispensed gel tooth whitening take-home kits provide the best results when used over extended periods of time. Such kits contain higher percentages of bleach than your average over-the-counter kits.

The gel tooth whitening kits you get from the dentist are customized for your teeth. The tray is custom fitted for precise application and the gel is formulated to the concentration best for you. The dentist can preload the trays so using them is very convenient. You will have all of the supplies needed plus detailed instructions on the proper and safe use of the gel.

Gel tooth whitening kits can also be purchased over the counter at the store. This is the least expensive way to whiten your teeth. These kits can be purchased for under $100. The peroxide concentration in the store bought kits is lower than what you would get in a dentist supplied kit or from an in-office treatment. These kits also come with a standardized tray unlike the custom fitted one you would receive from a dentist. Even with those drawbacks, you can still get whiter teeth from store bought kits, just don't expect the same rapid results that you would get from a professional teeth whitening treatment. - 30516

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