Skip to content

What’s the Best Way to Whiten Teeth?

If you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs or Centennial, you may be wondering about the best way to whiten your teeth. Should you see a professional like Dr. Cody Boals at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry? Or should you try an OTC (Over-The-Counter) whitening kit?

Are OTC Products as Good as Professional Whitening?

In general, OTC products do not deliver as good of results as professional whitening. Over-the-counter products are not customized to your mouth. The trays, strips, and whitening products are all “one-size-fits-all.” Whether you have minor staining or serious stains, you’ll get the same level of whitening power. This is not true of professional whitening. Dr. Boals can customize your treatment and your level of whitening to provide you with optimal results. 

In addition, most ADA-approved whitening products like Crest Whitestrips, generally have relatively low concentrations of the whitening compound. This means they will take a lot more time to provide the same results as professional treatments.

Also, some OTC kits that are not ADA-approved, particularly those available on the internet, have a dangerously high level of whitener. This can harm both your gums and your teeth if you attempt to treat yourself with OTC whitening explains Easton PA teeth whitening specialist, Dr. Dave Moghadam. 

There are also some OTC products out there that simply don’t work, or are harmful for your teeth. Charcoal toothpaste is a good example. It claims to “whiten” your teeth, but it’s a harsh abrasive, and will permanently damage your enamel if you use it regularly. It’s completely ineffective, and dangerous for your oral health. ‍

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is versatile, safe, and can address issues that OTC products cannot treat.

  • Even, complete whitening – Many OTC products only whiten your front teeth (incisors and canines). These are the most highly-visible teeth and the most prone to staining. However, professional whitening also helps remove stains from your rear teeth and provides you with more even, complete coverage.

  • Faster results – In-office whitening at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry can restore your smile by up to 5 shades or more in just one appointment, and take-home treatments provide the same results in about 2-3 weeks of daily, hour-long treatment sessions. Most OTC products take much longer to deliver similar results.

  • Safer with fewer side effects – Getting your teeth whitened by a dentist ensures that you do not have to worry about issues like excessive tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or accidentally over-whitening your teeth, which can make them chalky and brittle. In contrast, DIY whitening with OTC products means you’re at a higher risk of these side effects and complications.

Want a Brighter Smile? Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Cody Boals Now! 

Are you located in Mountain Shadows, Old Colorado City, or Fillmore and ready to explore teeth whitening? Come to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry right away. As an experienced cosmetic dentist, Dr. Cody Boals is here to help. Contact us at (719) 301-6604, or stop by our office at 3470 Centennial Blvd, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 to get started.