Why Custom Teeth Whitening Trays From Your Dentist Are Safer for Your Teeth - Escondido Family Dental Care & Specialty Center Escondido California (2024)

Teeth whitening treatments provided by dentists are a more effective and safer approach to improving the color of teeth than over-the-counter alternatives. These custom whitening trays are made from an impression of the patient's mouth, so they fit properly.

Teeth whitening trays can also be purchased over-the-counter, but those are typically one-size-fits-all appliances. They rarely fit well, which can lead to uneven whitening or irritation.

Teeth whitening with custom mouth trays

Teeth whitening treatments usually start with the dentist taking a close look at the patient's teeth to find any existing dental issues. Whitening damaged teeth can lead to severe teeth sensitivity and pain. In some cases, it can lead to permanent damage to gum tissues and teeth.

The dentist will also evaluate the patient's teeth to determine the cause of their stains. Whitening treatments are great on stains caused by smoking, foods/beverages and aging. Other types of stains, like those caused by tooth decay and tetracycline antibiotics, rarely go away after whitening treatments. These types of stains can be covered up with restorations like dental bonding, veneers, and crowns.

Once the dentist has cleared the patient for teeth whitening treatments, the patient is asked to bite down on a mold that leaves an impression of their teeth. The impression is sent to a lab that makes mouth trays and other dental restorations. It takes about two weeks for the customized whitening trays to be ready.

The benefits of using custom whitening trays

A custom whitening tray fits well on a patient's teeth, which leads to improved whitening as their teeth are evenly immersed in the bleaching agent. The mouth tray also helps prevent the bleaching solution from getting into the person's gums during treatment. The hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen carbamide in such products can irritate gum tissues or damage them.

Custom teeth whitening trays also come with the added benefit of having a dentist explain how to properly use it. These are long-lasting appliances that can last the rest of the patient's life if they do not have major dental work done.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry states that custom whitening trays are the safer option when whitening teeth. They are effective at keeping the bleaching product exactly where it needs to be: on the patient's teeth.

Maintaining the results of teeth whitening treatments

Teeth are constantly bombarded by things that can stain them, which is why most people develop stains and discoloration on their teeth over time. Whitening treatments can restore teeth to their original color or make them whiter. Here are simple things that patients can do to maintain their teeth's new color:

  • Practice good dental hygiene, which helps prevent new stains
  • Use whitening toothpaste a couple of times per week
  • Avoid foods/beverages with strong colors, like pasta sauce and red wine
  • Perform maintenance whitening treatments as needed

Get your custom mouth tray

Call or visit our Escondido clinic if you need a custom mouth tray for whitening treatments. Our dentist can provide you with a complete at-home whitening kit.

Request an appointment here: https://www.escondidofamilydentistry.com or call Escondido Family Dental Care & Specialty Center at (760) 747-7223 for an appointment in our Escondido office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Escondido, CA.

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Why Custom Teeth Whitening Trays From Your Dentist Are Safer for Your Teeth - Escondido Family Dental Care & Specialty Center Escondido California (2024)

FAQs

Why Custom Teeth Whitening Trays From Your Dentist Are Safer for Your Teeth - Escondido Family Dental Care & Specialty Center Escondido California? ›

These custom whitening trays are made from an impression of the patient's mouth, so they fit properly. Teeth whitening trays can also be purchased over-the-counter, but those are typically one-size-fits-all appliances. They rarely fit well, which can lead to uneven whitening or irritation.

Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening? ›

Bleaching products can have multiple side effects such as damaging the dental enamel, causing irritation to the gums, tooth sensitivity and more.

Are teeth whitening trays safe? ›

At-home teeth whitening trays are typically a more affordable solution than getting whitening treatments performed in-office by the dentist. These kits are usually more expensive than over-the-counter products, but they are safer on teeth and lead to better results.

What is the safest method for whitening teeth? ›

Custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments are the safest and most effective ways to whiten teeth. ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, gels, and strips are more affordable and convenient options.

Why is whitening your teeth bad for you? ›

Risks of teeth whitening

One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which can occur during or after treatment. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can also lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, and discoloration.

Who shouldn't get their teeth whitened? ›

Children under 16 years of age. Patients with periodontal disease, tooth decay, cavities and exposed roots. People who are allergic to teeth bleaching whitening agents like peroxide. Individuals with sensitive teeth.

Who should not get teeth whitening? ›

If you have sensitive teeth, you should let your dentist know. You may not be a candidate for teeth whitening. If you are allergic to peroxide, you will not be able to have your teeth whitened, since peroxide is the active ingredient in whitening systems.

How long do custom teeth whitening trays last? ›

The results from take-home teeth whitening trays do not last as long as those from in-office teeth whitening. Take-home teeth whitening kits produce results that can last around six months. In-office whitening can last for well beyond a year if the patient cares for their teeth properly after treatment.

How long do whitening trays from dentist last? ›

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. In some scenarios, the results may last for up to a year.

Are whitening trays 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.

Can yellow teeth become white again? ›

What Can Be Done to Whiten Yellow Teeth? If you're looking for a radical change in the coloring of your teeth, you need professional-grade whitening to get the job done. Your cosmetic dentist can provide treatment that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes years of stains with a powerful bleaching agent.

How can I whiten my teeth at 60? ›

Bleaching Trays

They are an easy and quick way to enhance your smile. Compared to commercial products, whitening trays from your dentist are stronger and much safer for seniors in particular. As you age, your gums and teeth can become more sensitive.

What is the number one teeth whitening method? ›

Option #1: In-Office Laser Whitening

This is one of the popular teeth whitening methods that some people believe is the most effective way to get a brighter smile. Using lasers and peroxide-based whitening agents in a professional setting, this teeth whitening method provides dramatic, lasting results.

Can teeth whitening make teeth worse? ›

Whitening gels will not damage your tooth enamel. Enamel is the hardest tissue in your entire body and consists of tiny tubules. The enamel may be discoloured, but most often, it is the layer beneath the tooth's enamel that picks up most staining.

Is whitening your teeth bad for your gums? ›

Bleaching agents that whiten your teeth can often temporarily irritate the gums. In a healthy patient, that irritation is minor. However, for patients who have active gum disease, the whitening agents can cause more severe gum reactions such as increased redness, swelling, and even pain.

Is teeth whitening recommended by dentists? ›

Teeth whitening by a dentist (or under the prescription of a dentist) is the only safe and effective way to ensure your oral health is protected.

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