According to a 2015 Health Policy Institute study, 1 in 4 American adults are so uncomfortable with the condition of their teeth that they avoid smiling. Often times, teeth may become naturally stained over the years through everyday activities, such as smoking, eating certain foods, and consuming caffeine.

According to a 2017 study by Hexa Research, globally, the teeth whitening market is believed to have been worth $5.56 billion USD in 2016 and is projected to be $7.4 billion in 2024.

82.5% of patients reported significant improvement following a professional dental whitening session.

Various groundbreaking techniques have made achieving the perfect smile simpler, quicker, and more cost effective than ever. And if you need a reliable dentist for the best treatment options, seek out this professional dentist at Singing Hills Dentistry.

Benefits of Teeth Whitening at the Dentist

Although various home-kits are currently available for teeth whitening, the more effective safest option remains going into the dentist’s office.

DIY products often use much lower strength bleach than what is used at the dentist’s office. Home concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide are 3%, while at the dentist the strength is 15 to 43%.

Although some at home whitening strip kits use up to 6% hydrogen peroxide, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends at least 10% strength for any benefit.

Despite the fact that teeth whitening has been proven very safe and effective, the dentist is skilled at dealing with any complications that may arise. Skilled dentists will often perform an oral exam and consider the patient’s complete medical history before beginning the process. They can also decide which strength needs to be used for specific stains.

During the procedure, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. After treatment with heat, light, or laser, results can be seen in only a 30 or 60-minute session.

Dramatic results can often be seen after the first treatment. If staining is extreme, the patient may be asked to come in for an additional session.

Dental Bleaching Techniques

Two main techniques are used for whitening teeth in dental offices, vital and non-vital bleaching.

• Vital Bleaching –is performed on “living” teeth, which are one’s own, natural teeth.

• Non-Vital Bleaching– is performed on “non-living” teeth, such as those after a root canal.

Dental Bleaching Methods

Patients can opt for 3 main bleaching methods at their dentist’s office.

• On-Tooth Application – In this method, the dentist will apply a special type of bleach directly on to teeth. Heat or light then activates the bleaching process.

During this process, the dentist will first clean plaque and tartar from teeth and gums and fill any cavities. Dental dams or rubber shields will be placed in the mouth to protect the gums. The hydrogen peroxide or carbamide solution will be left on the teeth for 10-45 minutes, wiped off, and repeated if needed.

• Mouthguard Trays- After molding and creating a special mouthguard for the patient, the dentist will send the patient home. The patient will be instructed to wear the mouthguard filled with special bleach for a set amount each day.

Best of all, these mouthguards are designed to last a lifetime.

• Toothpaste – The dentist will instruct the patient on how to brush with a special bleaching toothpaste.

Teeth Whitening Method Subtypes

4 main teeth whitening method subtypes are available in most dental offices. All techniques are quite similar in strength and price range. Consult with your dental health professional to choose the one best suited for your teeth.

• Britesmile Whitening - Currently popular at dental practices, Britesmile gel is pH balanced, compatible with tooth enamel, and responds to a blue wavelength activation lamp.

• Lumbrite Whitening - This relatively newer technique is bleach-free and produces results in as little as 30 minutes.

• Zoom Whitening – This very popular treatment takes approximately 45 minutes, and Zoom hydrogen peroxide gel works in conjunction with light to whiten teeth.

• Opalescence Whitening – This is considered a minimally invasive way to whiten teeth. It uses 38% hydrogen peroxide gel and no activation light.

Cost of Teeth Whitening

The cost of teeth whitening varies, depending on the geographical location of the dentist and the severity of the stains. At times, the reputation and skill of the dentist also greatly influences the price. In addition, since this procedure is considered purely cosmetic, it is not typically covered by dental insurance.

Typically, teeth whitening costs range from $300 - $1,000 USD, with $500 - $700 USD being the average.

At times, various online offers or in-office promotions are available; deals have been found for as little as $139 USD!

The cost of Lumbrite treatments is approximately $400 - $500 USD. Britesmile treatments average about $600 USD, while Zoom and Opalescence are about $500 USD each.

Various skilled teeth whitening dentists are available in various North American cities. Do not hesitate to contact one today for your no obligation quote.