Teeth Whitening Trays: How they Work, Cost, and Alternatives (2024)

A radiant smile can contribute to a more youthful and energetic appearance, a desire shared by many. Consequently, there is a high demand for teeth whitening techniques. Whitening, often referred to as ‘bleaching,’ trays have gained popularity as an effective method to maintain vibrant smiles.

Teeth whitening trays are suitable for both young individuals and adults, addressing various defects or stains on their teeth. However, it’s generally not advisable for use in children. A study indicated that 80% of Americans, particularly those aged 18 to 49, express the desire for cleaner and whiter teeth, underscoring the widespread interest in enhancing dental aesthetics.

What are teeth whitening trays?

Although teeth whitening can make teeth whiter, it is not a medical practice because it does not produce teeth that are healthier or stronger. It’s a bleaching process that employs personalized whitening trays that are placed over the teeth to restore your mouth’s brightness and freshness without the need for more expensive, generic cosmetic dentistry procedures. The fact that it may be completed without a dentist’s supervision is by far its greatest benefit.

How do whitening trays work?

To reduce natural stains and alter the natural color of teeth, proven tooth whitening products or bleaching trays rely on proven innovations (35% hydrogen peroxide for in-office power fading or 10% to 15% carbamide peroxide for at-home whitening).

A combination of surfactants, abrasives, anti-calculus agents, and low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide are used in over-the-counter whitening products to minimize external stains and maintain whiteness following professional treatment.

What’s the timeframe to wear whitening trays?

You ought to wear them sparingly unless you have sensitivity problems. It’s crucial to use it consistently until benefits are apparent. Depending on how much whitening you want, several applications of teeth whitening are used. You should wear the trays for one to two hours a day, or even sleep with them in your mouth if you’re not feeling sensitive. But depending on the circ*mstances of each situation, some people would need a lot of wear, while others might simply need a little therapy to guarantee stains are gone.

More significantly, though, customers need to be prepared to use the tooth trays until their teeth have reached the desired level of whiteness. But in certain cases, it can take several weeks, and for large stains, it can take up to a year.

Dentists typically advise against using whitening trays continuously for a whole year. Instead, to get the desired result, patients are frequently told to try several therapy modalities. A few months with the trays on and a few months without them could be the format of the therapy cycle. Teeth can continue to be mineralized as a result.

Are whitening trays effective?

Yes, they sure are. Teeth whitening trays have become a convenient and relatively straightforward method to enhance your dental appearance, often yielding visible results within a few weeks. It’s crucial to seek a recommendation and confirmation from your dentist before using any tooth whitening tool.

To sustain the initial tooth whitening results, it’s advisable to incorporate daily flossing and rinsing into your oral care routine. Furthermore, it is essential to avoid acidic and tannin-rich foods and drinks, as they can contribute to staining.

What are custom whitening trays?

Many over-the-counter whitening tray products can be purchased without a dentist’s direct supervision. However, your dentist’s custom-fitted mouth trays are the safest whitening trays, per the study and analysis.

These are teeth- or mouthguard-like trays that are made especially to fit your mouth. This way, you may avoid the gum-irritating, tooth-whitening gel-leaking, and ineffective teeth-whitening that come with ill-fitting trays.

This teeth-whitening method involves filling the tray with a bleaching gel or paste that contains peroxide. After that, it is applied to the teeth for up to four weeks, for one to several hours each day.

How much do whitening trays cost?

Generally, the cost of whitening trays falls within the range of $150 to $600, varying depending on the dental healthcare services provided. These trays can be customized by your dental practitioner or purchased over the counter, depending on your preference and budget.

What are the alternatives to whitening trays?

Professional Whitening:

The safest and most effective method for teeth whitening is through professional dental services, especially for individuals seeking teeth whitening in Cypress, TX. While sensitivity may be experienced, professional whitening, administered by a dentist, ensures safe and optimal results. It is considered the best approach for achieving a brighter smile.

Whitening Strips and Gels:

These are small pieces of flexible plastic known as polyethylene, coated with a whitening gel containing around 60% hydrogen peroxide. To use, one strip is applied to the top teeth, and another strip to the bottom. The peroxide gel seeps into the teeth to lighten them. However, strips may have limitations, not reaching certain spaces or curved areas, resulting in a potential uneven whitening effect.

Whitening Toothpaste:

Designed to brighten teeth by eliminating surface stains, whitening toothpaste lacks peroxide and mainly utilizes dedicated abrasives. These abrasives polish the teeth and help dissolve stains by generating cleansing chemical compounds in the mouth. While effective for surface stains, they can’t change the natural shade of teeth or combat deeper stains.

Whitening Light Devices:

These systems include a whitening gel and a plate with an attached light. The application is simple, involving attaching the light to the plate and turning it on. The LED light typically remains active for 15-30 minutes, depending on the brand.

If you have ever desired a brighter smile, schedule an appointment with your dentist to explore the option of custom whitening trays. These trays can help restore the freshness and radiance to your teeth. Whether you are interested in custom whitening trays or other whitening procedures, a dentist can guide you in the right direction. Take care and prioritize your safety!

Teeth Whitening Trays: How they Work, Cost, and Alternatives (2024)

FAQs

How much do whitening trays cost? ›

Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments
Product/TreatmentMinimum PriceAverage Price
In-Office Bleaching$500$650
Custom Dental Whitening Trays$150$375
KöR Whitening$500$850
Laser Whitening$500$750
Jan 14, 2023

How does a teeth whitening tray work? ›

With home whitening trays, the peroxide itself slowly releases oxygen molecules that seep into the outer layer of your tooth, called enamel, and break down stains over a few hours, whitening your teeth gently over a succession of days.

Are whitening trays from dentists worth it? ›

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry endorses the use of custom-fit teeth whitening trays crafted by dentists as they really are that much safer than other options. There is no risk of tooth-whitening gel moving on out of trays that do not properly fit your mouth.

What is the most cost effective way to whiten your teeth? ›

Over-the-counter options, like whitening toothpastes, strips, and kits, tend to be the cheapest options.

How long do whitening trays last? ›

Take-home teeth whitening trays

Typically, teeth whitening trays are used multiple times over the span of a couple of weeks. As far as how long the results from take-home trays last, the answer varies for everyone. In general, the results will last for six to eight months.

How many days in a row can you use whitening trays? ›

For at-home use, your dentist will instruct you to place a small amount of the bleaching solution into the clear trays and wear the trays for up to four hours a day for one to two weeks.

Do I rinse my mouth after whitening trays? ›

After the recommended whitening time (usually 15-30 minutes), remove the trays and properly rinse your mouth to eliminate any remaining gel. Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush once more.

How long do you keep the tray teeth whitening? ›

It is very important to remove all the excess material around the gums or the palate prior to sleeping with the trays. The carbamide peroxide gel in your tray is active for up to 8 hours. Normally teeth take 2-6 weeks to lighten. The darker your teeth are the longer your teeth will take to get lighter.

Can I sleep with whitening trays in? ›

Wear your trays as directed

Every dentist is slightly different and therefore you should follow the instructions provided with regards to wearing your trays. However, in most cases the whitening trays are worn overnight for at least 7/8 hours. During this time, you should not eat, drink or smoke.

What can I use instead of whitening trays? ›

Teeth whitening products available over the counter include whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes and bleaching gels and strips. Unlike professional treatments, these products contain little if any peroxide bleaching agent.

Is it better to whiten teeth at the dentist or home? ›

Professional teeth whitening uses a more effective process

Dr. Yalamanchili is able to use a stronger process in her office, typically approved for use by dentists only. You'll see some difference in the brightness of your teeth with a DIY kit, but not as much as if you had your teeth professionally whitened.

What are the cons of teeth whitening? ›

Schedule an appointment with our dentist in Gainesville for more information or a consultation about your specific concerns.
  • Tooth sensitivity. ...
  • Doesn't work on all teeth. ...
  • May exacerbate certain conditions. ...
  • Temporary. ...
  • Don't use if you're pregnant.

What's the cheapest way to get your teeth whitened? ›

Use teeth whitening toothpaste. Choose a toothpaste specially designed for whitening. These pastes include small, abrasive particles that lift stains from the surface of your teeth. Some also contain bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide, commonly used in at-home and professional whitening treatments.

What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›

Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

2. Can yellow teeth be bleached? Yellow teeth can be completely whitened with teeth whitening technologies at the dentist or at home. Depending on the status of your yellow teeth as well as your needs, the doctor will advise and prescribe the appropriate method.

How much should I spend on teeth whitening? ›

According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the average cost for teeth whitening or bleaching under the guidance of a dentist was $508 in 2022, up from $393 in 2019.

Why is teeth whitening so expensive? ›

The average cost of teeth whitening is influenced by factors such as the type of whitening procedure and technology used, the dentist's experience, and the geographical location of the dental practice. Some dental offices may also charge an additional fee for whitening consultations or touch-up treatments.

How much whitening gel in trays? ›

Place a SMALL drop of tooth whitening gel halfway up on the inner front surface of tray (in the front of each tooth in the tray). Do not spread the bleach around. Recap the syringe for next treatment until empty. The average treatment per arch requires approximately 0.5ml of whitening gel.

Can I drink with whitening trays in? ›

You can use tissue or cotton buds to remove excess gel that flows out of the trays. After use keep the gels in the fridge. Do not eat, drink or smoke while wearing whitening trays. In case of any sensitivity – remove your trays.

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