How Does Take-Home Teeth Whitening Work?

When you visit a store, you’ll see a number of options for removing teeth stains, from toothpastes to strips. However, none can offer the level of results possible with professional treatment. We provide our patients with a take-home option that can sometimes brighten teeth by multiple shades. How does take-home teeth whitening work?

Try Our Quiz on Take-Home Teeth Whitening

  1. True or False: We will create custom-made trays.
  2. True or False: You will wear them daily for a set amount of time.
  3. True or False: Results can last six months (or possibly more).
  4. True or False: You can take steps to help your smile stay brighter, longer.

Answer Key

  1. True. Our team will take detailed impressions of your teeth, which we then use to create a set of trays. The plastic trays will fit comfortably. We then prescribe a whitening gel, which is formulated specifically to prevent dehydration and sensitivity of the teeth. You will bring these materials home with you and begin your whitening treatment.
  2. True. Patients will place the whitening gel and wear them for a specific period of time that varies anywhere from a half hour to overnight, depending on the concentration of the whitening gel. Trays can be worn at night or during the day, so it is flexible with your lifestyle. Dr. Johnson-G’Sell and her team will advise you on the proper amount of time for your situation. The total treatment time takes about one to two weeks, depending on the extent of your discoloration and your desired whitening goals.
  3. True. On average, patients can expect results to last for several months, much longer than with store-bought systems. You can keep your trays and any remaining gel for touch-ups in the future as discoloration reappears.
  4. True. Teeth stains form as a result of our daily habits. To reduce their severity, we suggest brushing and flossing daily, having your teeth cleaned every six months, and cutting back on sugary foods and drinks with dark pigments. With these steps, you can help your smile stay bright for much longer. If you have any questions about teeth whitening, then please contact our office today.

Do You Have Discoloration?

At Magnolia Family Dental, Dr. Johnson-G’Sell and our talented team can help remove teeth stains with our professional cosmetic dental treatments. To schedule a visit with Dr. Emily Johnson, call Magnolia Family Dental in Kirkwood/St. Louis, MO, today at 314-822-4521.